Wednesday HodgePodge 1/23/13

1.  The popular saying 'All is fair in love and war' is originally credited to English writer John Lyly.  Is he right?

I think the crux of that statement says something about our lack of playing by the "rules."  It's one of those pithy statements made and accompanied by a smug smile and a rude hand gesture.

But to answer the question (finally):  No.  I really don't think he's right.  Of course, I don't really buy into the idea of fairness, either.
2. Are you a cereal eater?  What's your favorite kind?

Cereal is actually the love of my life (which is horrible as it's one of the worst things for my body!).  I love Frosted Mini Wheats, AppleJacks, Cookie Crisp and even Grape Nuts.  But my cereal repertoire is far from limited to these four choices. 

3. A five year old in Pennsylvania was recently given a ten day school suspension for talking with a friend about shooting one another with a Hello Kitty Bubble gun (the toy blows bubbles).  She did not have the gun with her at school. 

A psychological evaluation was also ordered and the incident was recorded on her permanent record.  The suspension was later reduced to two days and her parents are suing to have the incident removed from her file. Your thoughts? (If you missed the story, click here for details)

At some point when I was napping, adults really started allowing their strange preoccupations inform the actions of children.  And frankly?  I don't think it's OK.  I realize school shootings and the behavior that leads to those incidents needs to be taken seriously, but I also believe God put in a brain in my head (and gave me authority over some of these children) so I could use common sense when it came to dealing with these types of incidents.

This situation probably could have been rectified if the playground supervisor (teacher, principal, some authority figure) simply responded by saying, "You know, we really shouldn't point guns at other people--even toy guns.  But a bubble machine sounds like fun!  Does it make a lot of bubbles?"  The little girl likely would've understood the directive and there would've been no harm done in this situation at all.

I'm currently reading this book called Simplification Parenting and I've really started to wonder how much anxiety we're creating for our children by exposing them to these types of mentalities (and events--not sure your five year old needs to watch the CBS Evening News regularly).

4. Whatever happened to_______________________?

personal accountability

Anyone else feel like few people know how to own their own stuff anymore?

5. January 23rd is National Handwriting Day, billed as a day to reacquaint yourself with a pen and pencil.  Do you like your handwriting?  Do you prefer to print or write in cursive?  This date was chosen because its the birth date of John Hancock.  What's the last thing you signed your name to? 

I usually like my handwriting.  I sign checks at least once a month, but I spend a small amount of time writing every week in a personal journal.  I wish it were something we emphasized a bit more.

6.  Speaking of John Hancock, ever been to Philadelphia?  Do you have any desire to visit the city of Brotherly Love?

I've never been, but I also have no great desire to go.  Actually, Favorite usually has to pull me kicking and screaming on any type of vacation.  I have a great time once we're on our way, but in the planning stages?  I'm not a willing participant.

7. Share something funny you've heard a child say. 

KK recently asked me if Ryan was going "to come out through my belly button" and then looked very concerned at the size of my belly based on the size of my belly button.  She also proceeded to scream, "Hey!  It time to come out and pway (play)!"

I'm also always charmed by the way Num-Num theWonderChild has started to say, emphatically, "Nanks (thanks) you vewy much!" when you help her with her coat, give her a french fry, etc.  She just seems so relieved you've met a need she's had--like she's waited for the last six years for someone to notice she needed to take her coat off.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

LilBro is coming home this weekend to celebrate his birthday and Favorite is off on Saturday.  I am SO looking forward to it :)

Wednesday HodgePodge 1/16/2013

1. Lake Superior University has once again published a list of words/phrases they think should be banished from the Queen's English...here's the list for 2013-

fiscal cliff, kick the can down the road, double down, job creators/creation, passion/passionate, yolo (an acronym for you only live once), spoiler alert, bucket list, trending, superfood, boneless wings, and guru

Which of these words/phrases would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why. Go here to read more about how the words were chosen.

I'm reclaiming YOLO.  I've heard so many ridiculous phrases followed with YOLO that I'm making it my life's mission to tweet even more ridiculous stuff and hashtag YOLO on the end for comic relief.  Maybe it will draw attention to the ridiculousness of the whole movement.

But if I were to get rid of any phrase?  "You'll have that."  UGH.  Do people just need something to say in response to a situation that requires no actual response?  My students use this one regularly and I just slap my forehead in disgust.  Basically I'm against raising a generation of people who say meaningless things just to have something to say.

2.  When was the last time you rode a train?  Where did you go?

I don't think I've ever actually ridden on a train.  I rode a subway in New York, though.  Does that count?  It was 13 years (!!!) ago.

3. Bagels-yay or nay?  Favorite 'flavor'?  Favorite topping?

I love bagels, but I don't eat them often.  I read an article once about how they are actually glue to your internal organs.  That freaked me out enough to include them only occasionally.

When I do include them, though, I enjoy Panera's Cinnamon Crunch with the honey walnut cream cheese.  It's a rare occasion I'll allow myself to indulge, but they are SUPER good.


4.  'Tis the season of awards shows...if you could star in a movie already made which one would you choose?

I would love to be in something like Easy A.  There's something about Emma Stone and her comedic delivery in that movie.  Frankly, I feel the same way about Ellen Page, but I'm pretty positive I don't look young enough to play in something like Juno.

5. The move towards single gender classrooms has been making the news in recent months....what say you?  Do you think kids perform better if seperated by gender and are taught differently or is that discrimination?  If you're a parent, is this something you'd support in regard to your own children? 

I'm not a fan--mostly because my classrooms revolve around discussion and regular conversation.  Those discussions depend on differing viewpoints so variety really is a necessary part of my day.  Guys view situations differently than girls.  I keep begging for a strong, catechized Catholic kid in my advanced American Lit class because none of my students seem to understand the Biblical allusions.  That student would be absolute perfection for class discussion.  Upper-middle class students often don't see the situational irony in "The Gift of the Magi" but it's rare a student with a lower socioeconomic status misses it.

I know those things don't just focus on gender, but I think it makes the point that all these perspectives are necessary to my classroom.  (Though not all teachers may agree--nor would I expect them to.  Each educator has a style that works for him/her.  Discussion just happens to be very effective in my room.)


6. What's your favorite thing about staying in a hotel?

The time away :)  Favorite and I used to love to stay in hotels when we lived in our trailer.  The rooms were so much nicer than anything we had at home so it was a total vacation.  Now, though?  Our house is pretty nice.  So it's rare a hotel room meets all the amenities we have available to us at home.  I guess the best part is I don't have to clean it.

7. Do you have a 'word' for 2013?  What's the story behind your choice? 

My word is Peace.  I've written about it here and here (if you are interested).  

I've been a little unsure about that word because I know the upheaval and chaos I'm getting ready to experience (ha!), but the first devotion in One Thousand Gifts (the new devotional book I'm using for the start of this year) discussed the fact that peace and gratitude are inextricably linked.  I felt like that was reassurance that those are definitely things I'm going to focus on this year.


8.  Insert your own random thought here.

Writing one day of sub plans is relatively stressful because it brings up all sorts of questions:  Will the students understand?  Will the sub follow my instructions?  Will the sub know what he/she is talking about?  Am I going to have to reteach this concept?  Is there any way I can delay this lesson until my return?

Six weeks of sub plans is turning out to be a little overwhelming.  So I'm trying to practice gratitude for the fact that I have six weeks worth of days to take off when Ryan is born.

Wednesday HodgePodge 1/9/12

1. What is ONE thing or area in your home or life you hope to report is completely organized when 2013 draws to a close?  Do you  have a plan to make it happen? 

My first goal is to get our bedroom in order.  There aren't a lot of disorganized things in there--just some spaces that need to be a bit more functional.  Some of that will cost a bit of money so it may take until the end of 2013 to make it happen.  I've already finished getting our closet together, and now I'm in the process of working on the small fixes that will make our bathroom a bit easier to keep clean.

My second goal is to make our yard look like a yard instead of a jungle.  We plan to install a sidewalk this spring (YAY!) and then we can work toward landscaping, etc.

My third goal is to have a fully functioning nursery.  I figure it will take a couple of months after Ryan is born to know what works for us, but I have high hopes.  I'm trying to make sure everything has a space so organization is easier for all of us.

2. What's the worst uniform you've ever had to wear for a job?

I don't think I've ever had to wear a uniform for a job?  When I worked at the bank, we weren't allowed to wear anything denim so I guess that's the hardest it's ever been for me.  Granted, it's easier to wear professional clothing when one can afford to purchase said clothing...

3. What was your last kitchen 'mishap'?  

In an attempt to use my crockpot, I tried a recipe that was nothing but nasty mush.  Normally, I can choke anything down.  This, however, ended up in my garbage.  I'm not even sure what went wrong.

I try to experiment, though.  So it's not any surprise when things go awry from time to time.

4. How do you protect yourself from other people's negativity?

I hole up.  Often, while in quarantine, I'll stew over things said and really get my feelings in a mess.  Then, I find myself avoiding that person.  It's not really the best method, but I guess it's effective.

5. Who in your family do you most resemble (physically)? If you have children, who do people say they favor? Do you agree? 

I look like my father.  When he was little, LilBro and I favored quite a bit, but the older he gets, the more he looks like BigBro.  We all have the same smile, though.

In the past, people told me I favored my Aunt Ginger.  I don't think this is so true anymore.  And I've also been told I look like my Gramma Mays (though not nearly as much as my cousin Debbie).

Suffice it to say I resemble my dad's side of the family more than my mom's.  In fact, if I go to a funeral without my mom, her more distant family members have no idea who I am.  When I'm with her, they search my face to find some common traits, but I guess they come up fairly void.

6. January 8th is National Bubble Bath Day...will you be celebrating?

I believe in really hot baths and those are apparently unacceptable when one is expecting :(  I love a good bath at the end of the day, though.  It's a nice way to ease tension and reflect on the day (or read).

7.  Some of the 'world's best winter festivals' are - Mardi Gras (New Orleans),Quebec Winter Festival (Canada), Sundance Film Festival (Park City, Utah),  Rio Carnivale (Brazil), Sapporo Snow Festival (Japan), VeniceCarnival (Italy) and the Harbin Ice Festival (Northern China).  Of those listed (and if cost were not a factor) which would you most like to attend and why?

I know the point is to choose a festival and stick with it, but I'm not a fan of crowds.  I'd probably avoid just about all of them just to avoid the vast numbers of people flocking to one area.  The Sundance Film Festival does sound fun, though.  If I could go in a protective bubble, I'd consider it :)

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

My word for the year is peace so I'm trying to find it in the midst of creating six weeks of lesson plans for three different classes.  I'm so grateful to be able to take maternity leave, but the work to get to that point is a bit daunting.

I also realized this morning that I am almost 29 weeks pregnant and still not as fat as I was when I started my weight loss journey last summer.  It was a pretty encouraging discovery.

Wednesday HodgePodge 12/19/12

  1.  How will you spend 'the night before Christmas'?

Unfortunately, Favorite has to work Christmas Eve evening and Christmas Day evening so I'll be spending afternoons and mornings with him and my family.  The night before Christmas will find me with my Mom's side of the family at her house.  It's usually a good time.
 2.  What is one thing you are not?

   These days?  I'm not someone who can multitask without freaking out.  In the hustle and bustle of preparation, I called Lil Bro and lost my mind the other night.  Normally?  I'm pretty together.  But something about prengnacy and lack of memory for the sake of organization just screwed.me.up.  Thankfully, it doesn't happen often.

3.  Fudge--are you a fan?  Your favorite flavor?

  I've always been a big chocolate fan, but I just can't find it in my to like fudge.  This holiday season, I doubt I'll be eating too many sweets since they give me such horrible heartburn.  (It's one way to keep the weight at bay!)

  4.  Did you attend any craft/vendor fairs in the month of December?  Do you prefer homemade goodies or the ore professional stalls?  Are you giving any homemade gifts this year?

 I went to a craft fair last month with my mom and aunt, and there were some really cool things there.  Since I am a lover of purses, I especially appreciated all the handmade bags the vendors had available.  Some of them look SO PROFESSIONAL!

Generally, I don't give homemade gifts because I am not together enough to handle all the planning along with my regular job stuff.  And this year I'm busy crocheting an afghan for Ryan's room.  I'll post pictures as soon as I have time to take one. 
5.  What's your favorite type of holiday gathering?

 My favorite is the same type of gathering I appreciate any time of the year--people who are willing to get together and laugh until their sides hurt.  I think it's why I enjoy Christmas so much--my whole family is together.  I so enjoy my brothers and their significant others.  Their presence in my mom and dad's house with my Favorite is my definition of home, you know?

  6.  We're approaching a new year...what's going to be different in 2013?

Well, for starters, I'm going to be a mom.  But I think that responsibility really has me considering the priorities in my life.  I'm reassessing my focus and continuing to order my days.  Some days that's harder than others.  And I'll admit that the holiday season and the rush of the last minute semester fixes has kept me from consistently getting into my SOAP devotions.  Honestly, exercise has taken a back seat for the last month, too.

Fortunately, I feel like those things are only minor set-backs.  In 2013, I refuse to dwell on what's behind and look toward what's ahead--which is really something I've been working on in 2012. 

But I have a break on the horizon (two whole weeks)!  And if there's anything I hope 2013 brings, it's an understanding of what is worthwhile and what doesn't deserve extra time.
7.  Share a favorite scripture, quote, saying, or song lyric relating to peace.

Earlier this week Big Mama posted something about these lyrics.  Since then, that's been one of the few things circling in my mind.
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head:
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth he sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."

Till, ringing singing, on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
Of peace on earth, good will to men!
  8.  Insert your own random thought here.

 I keep trying to write about belief in my life and how it's affected my journey so far.  But the only intelligible thing I can think is this:  Despite what's happened or is happening, I still believe.  I do.  It was one of my deepest frustration this time last year and one of our prevailing joys this year--the hope of expectation.

And I pray that expectation for people who are waiting.  For those who are hurting.  Or lonely.  Or still working through the frustration of hope in general.  And I pray those people see Christ in a very real way over the coming year.

Wednesday Hodgepodge--10/21/2012

1.  What creeps you out?

Mostly?  People who don't understand the concept of personal space.  I seriously don't need to have a conversation two inches from your face.

Oh, and if I don't know you?  I don't want to touch you nor am I interested in you touching me.  This is why the whole "meet & greet" thing at church weirded me out.  What some people need a handshake to accomplish, I would rather do with a smile and nod.

(Clearly, if we know each other?  I'm willing to break down a few of these barriers.  But the two-inch conversation?  That's a friendship deal-breaker for me.) 

2.  What's your least favorite candy?

Tootsie Rolls.  Oh, and circus peanuts.

3. Are you a fan of scary movies?  What's the scariest movie you've ever seen?

My imagination is constantly on overdrive, so I've learned that scary movies aren't for me.  Before I learned that lesson, however, I convinced Favorite to take me to see The Ring.  Big mistake.  Huge.  I couldn't sleep in a room with a television for over a year.  It even creeped me out to be home alone in a room with a television that wasn't on.

Eventually, I did get over that fear (irrational as it was), but every creak, tap or drip makes me jump and imagine the criminal masterminds who are attempting to kidnap me and my little dogs.  (You know, because we'd be such desirable prisoners.)

4.  What part of life confuses you the most?

People, I suppose--even myself.

I don't always understand a person's motivation or why s/he perceives situations in a particular way.  I don't understand my own personality flaws or why I consistently revert to certain behaviors when I've worked so hard to eliminate them from my repertoire.  Or why many in the Christian community consistently condone pride (or at least turn a blind eye to its presence) while criminalizing a glass of wine.

Any and all of those things draw me to consider what I value as a human being and what Christ calls me to value as a Christian.  And allow me to say, I definitely don't understand why there are individuals who see themselves as spotless and perfect while pointing out the non-sins of others.  Juxtaposition never works when it comes to Christianity.  Ever.

The human heart is a bit difficult to analyze, no?

5. Pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, poppy...your favorite seed?

I'm a pretty big fan of sunflower seeds--especially on salads.  Over the summer, I added chia seeds to my oatmeal or pancake batter pretty frequently.

6. Imagine your life ten years from today...what's changed?

From September of last year to September of this year there have been few parts of my life remain untouched.  While many of those changes were uncomfortable and frustrating, God consistently prodded my heart for the sake of shifting my attitude and direction (physically, emotionally, spiritually and any other way an attitude can be shifted).  And that was only over 365 days.  Imagining ten years is a little overwhelming.

But the biggest change I see in ten years?  The addition of at least one Little Houseman to our household and all the things that come with parenthood.

7.  What do you a) love most and b) like least about the Hodgepodge?

A.  Most of these questions aren't things I would ever think to address on my blog.  There are also times when Joyce provides access to information or news I would've missed entirely otherwise.

B.  I don't always have time to participate and it really is a regular attendant community.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

In the last week, I've come to realize that there are reasons I became a teacher that will never make sense to the general public.  It doesn't matter how hard I work, how much I manage to help a kid or even how much time I log with my students in/out of the classroom.  There are groups of people with preconceived notions regarding my grading practices--even when a student consistently struggles with one thing I have repeatedly emphasized.  Despite comments to the contrary, I didn't become a teacher to help a kid fail or even perform poorly...liking the student or not liking the student really isn't part of the equation.

On another note, Project Priority is underway.  So far, I'm halfway to my weekly walking goal.  (I probably need to raise the bar a tad.)  And I've committed to reading through the Psalms using the SOAP method for my devotional time.  (I really like this method because I feel like I'm interacting with scripture instead of just reading.)  Ordering my days is starting to become a tad easier, and I'm realizing that consistent goals help me to focus my time and energy on what is important in the minute.

Wednesday HodgePodge (9/12/12)

1  ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? The NFL is back in action along with all the college teams.  Are you a fan?  Who do you root for?  If you're not a fan what do you do while the rest of America watches Saturday, Sunday, Monday night, and now Thursday night games? 

I love football season.  Mostly, it's just because I enjoy the community mentality people seem to have when we gather to cheer for hometown high.  Life always seems a bit cozier during football season.  Everyone seems to be heading the same direction and hoping for the same things.

I'm sure that probably sounds simplistic, but that's the feeling I get every year around this time.

I will say I know next to nothing about football.  Favorite occasionally tries to explain, but he usually ends up laughing at my clear belief that no team should be more than one down.  They should call the next one a second down to keep confusion at bay.  Alas, no one asks me.

(And for the record, with my lack of knowledge, I think it's probably good I didn't grow up anywhere in the SEC.  I would've had to move...)

2.  What's something I'll always find in your closet?

Cardigans--generally with 3/4 sleeves.  I have them in all colors, and purchase them in droves when I can find them because I wear them year-round.  Apparently, that's not a desired sleeve length for all people in all seasons.  Just me.

3.  Share one of your earliest memories.

The only thing that comes to mind are my imaginary friends--Tizzy and Lizzy.  I remember they used to follow me around, but they had a big crowd of kids that came with them.  Apparently the kids in the crowd didn't have names.  I would just talk and talk and talk to them. 

4.  What circus act best describes your week so far?

I don't know that I'm an act so much as an observer.  (Right now, I do little more than eat, sleep, read and panic over what the advanced class is going to do next.)  And trust me when I say the three ring circus becomes less appealing when it includes people you love.

5.  What's a food you disliked as a child that you love now?

Pistachios.  The first time I ate a pistachio I remember thinking it was the grossest thing in the world and why did adults go crazy for them.

At some point in time, I fell in love.  I have no explanation, but I've heard your taste buds change every seven years or so.

Which is interesting since I've always hated bananas.

6.  Describe your summer in three words.

Hot.  Surprising.  Awakening.

7.  Where were you on September 11, 2001?  Will you do anything special to mark the day?

I was standing on campus having a conversation with a friend before I headed to the student center.  Another person I knew came up and said, "A plane just hit the twin towers."  I remember getting a really surreal feeling and wondering if it was a stunt gone bad.  I mean, people want to fly under the St. Louis Arch so maybe they tried to fly between the twin towers?

When I got to the student center, I joined crowds of students and professors who didn't even sit down as they stared, gaping at the televisions.  

Mostly, I can remember the world didn't feel very big that day.  It felt suffocating and dark.

8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

I have a few scriptures attached to my computer screen at school.  They've become like prayers to me, and I can remember the exact reasons I posted two of them more than six months ago.  

The third came from a colleague's husband who posted it on Instagram.  It resonated with me and I definitely recognized God's deep faithfulness in my life--certainly not because of what I am, but because of who He is.

1.  "Let him who walks in darkness & has no light 
trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God" (Isaiah 50:10)

2.  "Is anything too difficult for the Lord?" (Genesis 18:14)

3.  "Not to us, Lord, not to us
          but to your name be the glory,
         because of your love and faithfulness"
                             --Psalm 115:1 (NIV)
.

Wednesday Hodgepodge 12/21

 

 

1. Are you cooking Christmas dinner? How many will be round your table this year? What are we having?

 

I do not typically cook Christmas dinner; Mom and Gloria usually take that job.  Occasionally, I contribute, but Christmas dinner is much lower-key at our house than Thanksgiving.  We may have sandwiches or something, but I haven't heard the menu this year.

2. What is one must-have Christmas cookie in your house?

 

Shortbread.  Always.  It's an easy cookie to make, and it's something I do fairly well.

3. Santa likes a glass of milk with his cookies. Do you? What kind of milk is on tap at your house-skim? almond? soy? full fat (Gasp!)

 

It's full fat, vitamin D milk at our house, but we aren't really milk-drinkers.  I keep the full fat version around because it's lower in carbs and better for women with PCOS.

4. Time magazine recently named their 'Person of the Year' for 2011. This is the person the editors believe had the greatest impact, for better or worse, in the past year. This year they chose 'The Protester'. Your thoughts? Who would you name Person of the Year for 2011?

Oh, I don't know.  According to their list, I guess The Princess, but those people don't really impact my community or my family.  Around here, I think The Soldier would be high on the list--there are several coming home, and one in particular whose parents can't wait to see him.  (Happy to have you home, Sawyer!)  In my life, I guess anyone would be labeled an Encourager or a Prayer.  The list is longer and more distinguished this year than in years past.

5. December 21st is National Flashlight Day... when was the last time you needed a flashlight and did you know right where to find one? 

 

I needed one when I put my sideboard together last week.  Luckily, I have one on my phone :)

6. candy canes...yum or yuck?

 

Love 'em in their own right.  Don't care for them chopped over my chocolate.

7. What Christmas carol lyric means the most to you? 

 

I've always been partial to "Oh come let us adore Him."  It's haunting to me...and six short words fill me completely.  Odd how that happens, eh?

8. Insert your own random thought here.

 

One last gift to buy.  Grades are entered.  I got an A in my grad class.  Sleep in heavenly peace, indeed.

Wednesday Hodgepodge, 6/15

1. What is one thing on your bucket list? If you don't have a bucket list let's pretend you do.

Oh, I have an entire list.  But one thing I'd like to do is to be able to run an entire mile without stopping.  I quit training for that after Lil' Bro moved, but I need to pick up again and kick my own butt. 

Stay tuned.  The training process should be hilariously awful.  Mostly because I'm not a runner.

2. What makes a good dad?

My dad was a pretty good dad, but I can't always explain why.  I don't know that there's one formula out there for every kid.  So maybe flexible?

In case you were wondering, my dad was a great disciplinarian (even though my brother got more spankings than I did--should've learned, Ron) and a fashionista.  He picked out all my mom's clothes and a good many of mine in the past.  He even matches my mom's jewelry and shoes ;)


3. Are you afraid of insects? Which ones?

I don't know that I'm afraid of them so much as I just don't want them ON me.  June bugs freak me out, and, while this is probably weird, I'm not a super fan of butterflies.  I just don't like anything that's going to get in my face or hair or crawl on me.

Ok.  Maybe I just don't like bugs at all.

4. We're barbecuing...what's on the grill at your house?

Pork Steak.

Squash (yellow and green), mushrooms, onions, red and yellow peppers seasoned with Mrs. Dash, garlic salt and olive oil.

Corn on the cob.

Baked potatoes.

Oh, how I love summer.  And questions about food.

I'm hungry.

5. Do you believe that playing is more important than winning?

I don't think I understand the question?

I don't think winning is always important, but different people set different goals for themselves.  For example, "playing" weight watchers isn't really more important than winning.  Trackin'?

6. Do you tan? Use self tanners? Visit tanning salons? See your dermatologist at least once a year?

I do not tan--as in can't.  My skin is the color of paper and does not change color in the sun (with the exception of red); therefore, I'm pretty protective of it.  I don't use self tanners because I'm so pale, I look like a muppet after application.

And I stopped visiting the dermatologist when one of my doctors tried to put me on accutane.  Thank heavens my mother nipped that in the bud.

7. Five years ago I would never imagine that today I would_______________.

be a high school English teacher.  When I graduated from high school, my mother said, "You should be a TEACHER!"  And I said, "You're out of your mind!" 

It took seven years for me to recognize that calling (and it is a calling) and go back to school.  Here's to mothers who totally get it.

I saw this question on Marla's facebook page and I thought it was perfect for the Hodgepodge. Everyone go say hi to Marla...she has an E-book launching this week.

8. I really want two things for my house:

     1.  For people to walk in and say, "None of this matches but it looks totally great together!"
     2.  For people to walk in, flop down on a chair and make themselves completely comfortable.  I want my house to make people completely and totally at ease.

Wednesday Hodgepodge 6/8

1.  Do you and your family enjoy camping? What do you enjoy most/like the least when it comes to family camping? When was the last time you camped?

When I describe myself, I never use the word outdoorsy.  There's a reason.  I have curly hair and albino skin.  Both things thrive in air conditioning and electricity.  But camping?  Is a different story for some reason.  I think it's because everyone looks bad (lol).  Honestly, though, I love spending a couple of nights in tents and cooking our food over the campfire and spending the day at the lake.  I wish it was something we did on a regular basis, but we haven't really camped in forever.

2. Did you attend a summer camp when you were a kid? Is that a happy or not so happy memory?

I didn't like being away from home so I never went to summer camp.  Actually, even now, I'm weird with being away from home.

3. Over the course of your life, what have you probably spent more time pondering than anything else?

I ponder why I am not naturally thin and tall.

I wish I could tell you that I've spent my time on something more profound.

And now I'm a little ashamed of myself.  But it is honestly something that has frustrated me pretty much my whole life.  I've always been weight conscious and have never really been thin.

4. Which of the seven natural wonders of the world would you most like to see? There are many lists of 'wonders' but this is the standard natural wonder list-Mount Everest, The Great Barrier Reef, The Grand Canyon, Victoria Falls, The Harbor of Rio de Janerio, Paricutan Volcano and The Northern Lights.

I think The Great Barrier Reef.  I've always been drawn to water, but water teeming with life in abundance?  I'm on board.  Or submerged.

5. What was your first real job?

Outside of babysitting, I was a type setter for a local newspaper office.  When I was interviewed, I lied about how fast I could type so I would get the job.  That bit me in the rear end when the only other type setter went on vacation and I was left typing the entire paper by myself.  So I learned.  Fast.  No pun intended.

6. Lemonade or Sweet tea...which do you prefer on a hot summer day?

Actually, I take my tea without sugar.  But I'll be honest:  I'm more likely to drink a hot cup of coffee--even when it's blazing outside.  Some habits die hard.

7. What is something that always brings a smile to your face?

Baby laughs.  Nothing seems quite as free as a little kid just busting out in laughter.  But friends and family also make me smile.  And the possibility of hope.  Yeah.  That makes me smile.

8. I think I may actually find furniture for my front room soon.  I've seen several things I enjoy--just not entirely sure I want brown leather...even though it would look great in the room.  I wanted something with a little more color.  But I could always do that with blankets and pillows, right?

Oh, and I'm looking for a desk chair.  I tried to bribe my brother out of his to no avail.  So back to the drawing board :)

Wednesday Hodgepodge 6/1

1.  Have you ever been to the US capital-Washington DC? If so, what's your favorite site? If not, what would you most like to see on a visit to that city someday in the future? Is it even on your list of places to visit?


--I have never been to DC, and while it probably makes me a horrible person, I'm not really interested.  Favorite and I have big dreams of going to Europe and Mexico.  We technically have enough money in savings to go to Mexico this summer, but we're being responsible and putting some money away for a rainy day.  Well, and hoping to look better on the beach at a later date?  Mostly, we just want to travel.

2. When did you last attend a wedding? Are there any weddings on your summer calendar? Were you a summer bride? If you're single, is summer the season of your dream wedding?

--I was a spring bride--May, as a matter of fact.  It was a beautiful ceremony--mostly because my husband cried when he saw me and I can't ever remember smiling so big in my life.  It was just one of those moments when I knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that I was doing the right thing.

So far, there are no summer weddings on my calendar, but we're gearing up for an awesome October wedding.  Rest assured, my speech is going to be amazing.
3. What is your favorite way to eat strawberries?

--Mashed with pie crust.  Is there another way?  Oh, and don't tell me those nasty sponge cakes from Walmart.  Blech.

4. What is one thing you are especially looking forward to this summer?

--Time.  Time to relax.  Time to be.  Time to focus on my house and my husband.  Time to hang out with friends.  Time to laugh.  Time to spend with my Savior.  I think it's just time to have a little peace.  Oh, and I'll be doing my own little study--Get Out of That Pit by Beth Moore.


5. Do you use/like the self checker at the grocery store?

--My dad constantly reminds me that those machines took someone's job.  So most of the time, I try to avoid them.  (But sometimes I'm in a really big hurry.  Please don't be disappointed.)

6. Share a favorite piece of common sense advice.

--Don't share horrible things about your significant other with your friends, because someday you'll get over it.  Unfortunately, they will always remember the things you shared that likely should've been private.


7. Barefoot, flip flops, tennis shoes, sassy sandals-your first choice for summertime?

--Barefoot.  Flip flops are a close second.


8. Curriculum redevelopment begins today.  And when I'm done, I'll probably purchase that desk online that I pictured in my blog before.  I really like it, and I haven't found anything in a good price range that I like better--and believe me, I've looked.  Now I'm down to finding a desktop caddy I like that's affordable.

Wednesday Hodgepodge 5/18

1.  What reveals more about a woman-her refrigerator or her purse?

Let's be honest:  You find a cheerio, old Kleenex, a matchbox car, baby wipes and a diaper in a woman's purse.  Is it shocking to discover she has children?

And if she doesn't have children, isn't that even more telling? ;)

Just for the record, I have a set of Hello Kitty crayons in my purse.  No kids.

2. When was the last time you went to the zoo? Where? What's your favorite zoo animal?

Chris and I went to the zoo in St. Louis in March.  It was a good time because it was a beautiful day to be outside.  I think I just like the fact that you can walk around and enjoy the scenery.  It's a good time to talk.

I enjoy giraffes.  The big cats freak me out, but I have this weird thing where I have to look at them every time.  Like Panthers, for example.  And yes, I did capitalize Panther.  Anything that looks at you like it's contemplating a way to get through the cage deserves a bit of capitalization.

3. What social issue fires you up?

Right now?  Education reform.  I wholeheartedly agree that we have a responsibility to keep school districts and teachers accountable, but the currently proposed efforts are ludicrous.  It's completely ineffective to continue creating mandates that takes responsibility completely out of the hands of the students.

And it's counter productive to anything I'm trying to teach them.  After all, what's the point in getting them to realize that they need to own their own faults when education reform clearly explains that it's not their fault--it's the teacher's.

4. Are you a coupon clipper? If so, are you extreme?

No, though I probably should be.  I'm trying to condition myself to see those coupons as an actual dollar they are putting in the paper for the taking.

5. What is one of your favorite souvenirs brought back from your travels?

I have a Build-A-Bear Favorite and I built on our honeymoon.  I have every intention of building another one on our 10th anniversary.

6. Lemon meringue or key lime?

Lemon Meringue.  My gramma made fantastic lemon pie (what she called it).  One of the things I miss about her.

Coincidentally, if you read often, you'll discover that most of my memories with my gramma revolve around food.  It was her love language.  It might also be the reason I think we have to go eat so you know I care about you.

7. What is the most beautiful word you know in any language?

Yes.  Who doesn't want to hear yes after hearing no month after month?

8. I read the entire Hunger Games series in a little under a week.  I really enjoyed it, and I'm glad to know there is an author putting something out there that doesn't revolve around vampires or zombies.  I'd like to start working on a summer reading list, but I'm afraid if I make a list, I'm going to have everything read the first two weeks of summer.  Then what would I have?  But feel free to leave suggestions anyway.

Oh, and my memory is completely collapsing.  This year, I called Lil' Bro to wish him a happy 26th birthday (he's 27), and I also wished the STBSIL a happy 32nd birthday (she turned 33).  Is there something wrong with me?

Wednesday Hodgepodge 5/11

1.  How many times in your life have you moved house? 

Oh, let's see.

There was the time I moved to U of I.
Then I moved back from U of I.
Then I got married and moved in with my husband.
Then we built a house and sorta viking moved into it.
So...four?

2. What subject would you study if you had a year to devote to it?

 

I think this is like asking an alcoholic about her drink of choice, because there are so many things I would study.  I would love to spend a year in seminary.  I would love to go back to school and spend more time studying literature.  I think I would like to learn a little about film.  Actually, I'd love to take a class about film and literature.  And mythology.  OOh...I'd love another class on mythology.

3. What in this world breaks your heart?

 

Lately, the realization that there are so many hurting people who struggle to understand God and who he is through their grief.  I hurt for them.  Actually, sometimes I think I hurt with them.

4. What is one item that symbolizes the times in which we live? Why?

 

A new sports car:  We have a destination; we need to get there fast, and we need to do it in style.

5. Share a favorite bumper sticker or t-shirt slogan.

 

On a Breast Cancer Awareness Shirt:  SAVE SECOND BASE! 

It took me a second to figure out what the shirt was talking about--then I cracked up. 

6. How do you like your spaghetti? 

 

Without calories or carbs.  Is that an option?

Sadly, I LOVE spaghetti so it's difficult to limit my intake or cut it out completely.

7. What is one piece of advice you would give a recent, or soon to be recent, graduate?

 

If you can accomplish it, get rid of those "I have to do it NOW" feelings.  Take your time.  There is no rush to get through college.  There will be people who tell you to get your degree so you can get your life started, but I hope you realize that THIS IS life.  The here and now.  You aren't wasting anything.  And maybe you'll find a little enjoyment where you are.  And those people who told you to rush will be the same people who ask you when you're getting married, when you're having kids, when you're building a house or when you'll see some grandbabies.  Rarely do they give you the opportunity to savor where you are and what you have.

8. I can't seem to get enough sleep these days.  Anyone in this boat with me?  I've started taking a B vitamin complex because it's just getting ridiculous.

Oh, and does anyone have any idea how much of an advocate you should be for your own health situation?  With my old doctor and my new doctor, I feel like I make myself a pain when I ask questions.  But when I don't ask questions, blood work is lost, questions go unanswered and I have no idea what I'm supposed to be doing.  Thoughts?

Wednesday Hodgepodge 5/4

1.  Have you ever been served breakfast in bed? Do you enjoy that? If someone were serving you breakfast in bed this coming weekend what would you hope to see on the tray?


Breakfast?  No.  My Favorite knows me well and I am notorious for spilling stuff all over myself.  And who wants to wash sheets because she got breakfast in bed?  Not this girl.

2. What is one piece of advice you would give a new mother?

On the days when you haven't slept, the baby has puked and pooped on everything and you can't imagine why you wanted this so badly, remember how blessed you are to hold that child in your arms.

3. When was the last time you wanted to scream? Explain.

Screaming is the one way I deal with my frustration, but I specifically wanted to scream today after I called my doctor's office to get the results of my bloodwork only to find that they haven't attempted to get those results.  And all of this came after they screwed up the bloodwork initially and I had to find a LabCorp in my region so that bloodwork could be retaken.

Is it any wonder I cried?

4. Can you hula hoop?

I think it is unfair that God has given me these hips and an inability to hula hoop.

5. What is something people do in traffic that really bothers you?

Stare.  Seriously, people, I'm no looker so I know you aren't staring because I'm the most gorgeous thing you've ever seen.  And after 2 seconds, I start imagining I've grown the most horrifying zit man has ever seen or that my hair is sticking straight up.  Look at the road, please.

6. What do you do when people don't admit they're wrong?

It depends.  Sometimes I mouth and start feeling all self-righteous because OF COURSE they are wrong and I'm right.  Then there are times that I don't want someone to be mad at me so I will try to make it better even though I'm not wrong.  Weird, right?

7. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word 'fun'?

Water.  I know it's probably bizarre, but I love most things water-related and I can't wait for warm weather and swimming :)

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Yesterday, a co-worker (a female so there's no weirdness) and I were discussing weight loss and I shared my weight loss frustration.  She responded, "Well you're a very attractive woman."  Her comment was so sincere and heartfelt and I was completely caught off guard.  But it made me feel so GOOD!

Wednesday Hodgepodge 4/27

1.  What is something that bothers you if it is not done perfectly?

Not to sound OCD or anything, but it bothers me when a lot of things aren't done perfectly.  That statement is actually pretty funny, because I rarely do things perfectly, but I demand perfection in so many areas of life.  It's likely the source of a lot of stress.


But it really irks me when people go about planning their classes with little to no real thought/work.  I spend so much time thinking through lessons and trying to anticipate conversations, etc., that it blows my mind to think other people come into their rooms with reckless abandon.

2. What is one of your best childhood memories?

Saturday morning breakfast.  My grandma and grandpa would cook biscuits, gravy, eggs, bacon, sometimes sausage, and grape juice and my ENTIRE family (seriously, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) would come and eat.  I loved it.  I miss it now that my grandparents are gone.

3. Do you plan to watch the Royal Wedding and when was the last time you wore a hat? 

To be honest, I really don't care about the royal wedding because it is the royal wedding.  But I do have a thing for fashion and weddings.  I mostly follow the hoopla just to see what people are wearing (particularly the tiaras.  I love a good tiara).


Sheena and I just talked about the hat thing not too long ago.  I can remember when I wouldn't buy an Easter dress if it didn't have an accompanying hat.  And I don't think my pink Illini cap counts (I wore it last week).

4. Where do you fall in the birth order in your family? Do you think this has influenced your personality? 

I am the middle child and the only girl.  I think being the only girl has significantly decreased middle child syndrome.

5. Where do you think you spend most of your money?

Walmart.  It saddens me, really.

6. When you need to confront someone would you rather communicate in person, on the phone, by email or by letter? Why? 

It depends on the type of confrontation.  If I'm exploding mad, I will totally just let it fly.  For the most part, though, I prefer to have time to craft my thoughts and opinions.  Email gives me that opportunity AND I can also give someone else the chance to back up my statements by bcc them.

7. Dodge ball, freeze tag, kickball or jump rope? You have to pick one.

Freeze tag.  Totally.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Dear PSAE, I love that you judge my working-my-butt-off-efforts on a few kids who are tired of testing, don't take the test seriously and don't understand half the questions.  Thank you for considering us when you made the rules.

Wednesday Hodgepodge 4/20--With Bunny Ears

1. What are your plans for Easter Day/weekend?

Actually, I have no idea.  I know that I'll probably sleep in on Friday and there is lesson planning to be done on Friday or Monday for the coming week.  Oh, and there's laundry to do, and I really need to mop the floors.  Since I'm on this South Beach Diet thingy, I'll probably have to cook some for the coming week.


Oh.  I guess it appears as though I've already filled my weekend.

2. Besides Jesus, what one person from The Bible would you most like to meet and why?

Enoch.  I want to know what kind of person he was before the Lord took him.  He must've been wonderful.

3. What is one modern day convenience you didn't have as a child that was easy to live without?

Cell phones.  Don't get me wrong; there is a certain convenience to having a cell phone, but all in all, I don't recall my childhood being ruined by my inability to text "lol" to my friends at regular intervals.  And frankly, I don't need to talk to everyone to recap my day.  Most of the time, I don't like to talk on the phone, but I feel obligated to keep my cell around in case something goes wrong.

4. Are you more right brained or left brained? If you don't know what that means there is an interesting little quiz here. 

I am  right brained; however, there are some skills I have acquired on the job that have significantly upped my left brained score.  So while I am pretty consistently right brained, I still like organization in the classroom and have developed skills to cope there.

In the past, I would've told you right brained whole hog.  I'm even left-handed!

5. What is something you intended to do today but didn't? Why?

I intended to put on foundation so I wouldn't look as scary when I went to work.  I didn't because it afforded me another 15 minutes of sleep this morning.  (I didn't really do my hair either.  Welcome to pony-tail-land.)

6. Cadbury Creme Eggs or Reeses peanut butter?

I had a really, really bad experience with peanut butter, so outside of crazy cravings (which almost never happen), I can't eat it anymore.  Seriously, spend 3 hours puking peanut butter because of some crazy e coli outbreak and you won't be able to stomach the flavor either.  Quite literally.

I do LOVE Cadbury Creme Eggs.

7. Who was your favorite cartoon character when you were a child?

I'm not really sure.  I can remember that I LOVED DuckTales and She-Ra Princess of Power...oh, and who can forget My Little Ponies?  My mom said, before I could read, I would scream, "GET THE NAME; GET THE NAME."  She or my dad would have to run into the room and tell me the name of the cartoon (ex. "Ponies on Parade") and then I would say it aloud and contemplate it as though in it was a code for world peace.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I'm tired.  Everything makes me tired.  And I'm tired of being tired.