Marc

So I've been neglectful in my duties to update you all on my life. It's been rather busy the past month and a half, and amongst all the concerts and performances and schoolwork I began dating a boy. His name is Marc. I have had to been reminded that while I think the world revolves around me and all my friends and family know what is going on in my life because they should without me telling them (I'm a soprano, remember?), that's not quite how it works. LOL So here it is until I can call several of you on my drive down to Austin in a few days...

Marc and I met online. I know. Great opener that widens eyes and makes those who have been there go 'Good for you' and those who have not go 'Are you sure he's not a stalker'. He and I are both in similar places in our lives having both gone through a divorce and wanted to date around for awhile. Hence the online site. We had both come to the conclusion that to best get an idea for what we liked and didn't like we would have to actually go on multiple dates. And we were really tired of being alone doing nothing on Saturday nights. HAHA Neither of us thought we would be finding someone on a website who would be an amazing match for us.

So our first date lasted 8 hours. Blue Mesa for cocktails and dinner, then Dave & Busters for billiards. I think we tied, Marc says I won the most games. Seeing as how he can be pretty competitive, I'll believe him. So after winning at billiards, we decided we were both pretty tired and it was time to go home. We'd started the date rather early to avoid traffic, and in case it was horrible we wouldn't have to waste the entire night with one another. So we left D&B and checked a clock. 9:50pm. We looked at each other in disgust and disappointment, figuring that we're now old people if we can't even stay out past 10!

Since then, it's been getting better and better. Basically, he's the male version of me. I didn't realize how much fun I am to be around! LOL We are both goofballs and have loud laughs. He's a twin, and although identical, I can spot the differences. Thank goodness! We consider ourselves to be nerds/dorks in our own ways, and love to be silly. And he's willing to get out on a dance floor with me! So we'll keep having fun, and I'll try to be a much better communicator with my friends and family about this aspect of my life. I think Heidi said it best when she wrote me, "But I just want you to know that all you can do is be yourself, do what makes you truly happy and screw what anyone else thinks." So for all of you out there, I am happy. I'm having a great time, lots of fun, and I'm not getting married anytime soon. HAHAHA!

Belly Monster

The Belly Monster is almost here! I was so excited to be in Minnesota this past weekend to celebrate my sister Stacy and her soon-to-be baby! The shower was wonderful, and seeing my sisters and parents was so much fun! I miss being around them, so seeing them and being able to visit is so special. And that there is a new baby on the way, it makes it even more exciting! Below are a few pictures...


The Gehrman/Gabriel Girls












Stacy's Belly Monster














Taylor's Belly Monster

Christmas Questionnaire

So here you go. Feel free to comment back with your own Christmas faves!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Ooo... tough one. I love picking out gift bags but I love to tear off wrapping paper!!!

2. Real tree or Artificial? Real has a wonderful smell. Artificial is easy to clean up after. I have a real 2.5 foot tree on my patio that will be kept year-round until I get a yard, then it will be planted.

3. When do you put up the tree? Mine's already on the patio with a few ornaments (it's small!). Usually the weekend after Thanksgiving.

4. When do you take the tree down? Sometime after the 1st.

5. Do you like eggnog? Yep!

6. Favorite gift received as a child? I really don't know. OK. I don't remember. I'm turning into my mother.

7. Hardest person to buy for? My mom. There are so many things she loves, it's hard to choose!

8. Easiest person to buy for? My mom. There are so many things she loves, all I have to do is choose!

9. Do you have a nativity scene? Not yet.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail. I'm having a friend of mine who is a budding photographer take pics of Coda and me for this year's cards. Keep an eye out in a few weeks for our awesome mugs in your mailbox! I've never done picture cards before!

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I don't know. We always laugh at our stocking stuffers because they're always 'everyday' items, but that's why they're great at the same time!

12. (Not sure what happened to #12 - maybe writer of #12 too busy Christmas shopping to write silly question.)

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? When I remember I have to shop for Christmas. I've already started this year, so I'm doing good.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Maybe. If I did it was one of those gift-exchange things from work or school that would have ended up lost or in the trash otherwise.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? 7 layer bars and buckeyes.

16. Lights on the tree? Yep! I prefer multi-colored.

17. Favorite Christmas song? The Christmas Song, Sleigh Bells, Carol of the Bells

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Both. Family is everywhere... Minnesota, New Mexico, and Texas. Working out the rotation can be confusing.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Hello?! Can I sing that song that tells you their names? Yes.

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Currently neither. Though it had been a star for awhile, and an angel while I was growing up.

21. Do you open presents on Christmas Eve or Morning? Traditionally in the morning unless we're "sharing" Christmas with multiple family members.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Besides everything I have to get done for the season on a personal level, it's also one of the busiest times at school with all our performances and upcoming events. So I feel like I have very little time to enjoy the season.

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I love them all. Though lately the brightest and jolliest have been standing out to me.

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? I love my mom's chili this time of year. LOVE IT.

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? An armband for my iPod to exercise with, a cordless drill, unique jewelry, pj's, a new robe, a massage, tickets, Minnesota Wild gear, picture frames, books... anything people give is wonderful.

26. Who is most likely to respond to this? Heidi was right that I'd respond to hers... hmmm... JENNY!

27. Favorite Christmas Movie? A Christmas Story, The Grinch

Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving, 2008

Thanksgiving was so much fun! I spent it with Alyse at her husband's brother's girlfriend's parent's house in Austin and the Paull's. I really appreciated the warm welcome from everyone, as I seemed to be the odd-ball out. Below are some pics from the dinner... Mmmmm... the dinner. SO GOOD.


At the Stephens' home.


Agh! No, Molly! Stop licking my nostril!


That's right. Get Alyse and Jeff instead!

Halloween is the New Thanksgiving

Remember how we were never allowed to put up Christmas decorations until after Thanksgiving? And we all made a big to-do is you saw someone else had put up their lights on their house BEFORE that last week in November? Last year I 'tsked' every time I'd enter a store and see their Christmas items on the shelves even before November had begun.

I didn't notice it this year. Not until I walked into Pier 1 and thought, 'Oh good! Christmas items! I can't wait to decorate!' And then I went home, looked up at my holiday storage bin on my closet shelf, and just before I decided to pull it down and unload the holiday spirit my brain did a double-take.

Wait. We haven't had Thanksgiving yet!

People, there is still an entire MONTH before December hits. There are even another 26 days until Thanksgiving! My BIRTHDAY hasn't hit yet, so WHAT am I thinking about Christmas for???

Because retail has drawn the conclusion that you go from Hallow's Eve to Christ's birth. And I bought into it this year without thinking about it. What about turkey? Ham? MASHED POTATOES?? Stacy, that was for you. What about my 28th birthday????? I want an arm band for my classic iPod so I can run with it.

Seriously. WHAT was I thinking? I wasn't. I apologize, Fall. I am sorry. I will no longer ignore your worthy season. Seeing as how I claim you to be my favorite. I will leave my cornucopia of squash and such items out until they rot, solely because I have slighted your existence. And because it's pretty. Like Fall.

More to come...

I will definitely post more pics when I receive them, but just to give you a taste of my AWESOME team at East, here is myself, the drama teacher, and the asst. band director in our Star Wars themed costumes. I'm an Ewok.

Gotta Keep Up!

Wow, there has been a lot going on lately!

Fall Concert was great. I mean, REALLY great. I can't tell you how good my choirs are this year. I expected a good concert (better than normal for fall), and got an amazing one. I keep wanting to explain how each choir sounded amazing, but I don't want to bore my readers (because there are so many) with the same adjectives of wonderful, blended, mature, strong, etc. The choirs really have hit the ground running this year. I just have to keep them going!

I'm getting a student teacher this year. Crazy, eh? But I'm the veteran (and one of the senior) choir director in CISD. So I get the student teacher! The stipend is terrible, and I hope and pray he's good, because we have a LOT to do. If he's good (PLEEEEEEASE be good), he's going to help out a bunch. It'll be worth whatever little pay I get for the extra hours of work if he can handle the classes.

Coda is wonderful. I have a friend who just got a puppy (adorable labradoodle!) and emailed me asking for suggestions, etc. Unfortunately I can't help much as I got Coda when she was 6 mos. old and didn't have to house train her or anything. But I could guarantee her that whatever she goes through with her pup will be worth is for all the love, affection, and loyalty that will be given to her. Dogs are absolutely wonderful companions, and Coda has improved my standard of living ten-fold. I don't want to think about life without her. She cracked me up again today, being all dominant and confident at the dog park, then shying away from the cart AND the puppies up for adoption in PetSmart. She's a keeper!

Here she's attempting to sit with 4 of us on the couch trying to watch The Office. She did get up on the back of the couch as if she were a cat. LOVE HER.


I ran a 5K! Wait. Let me rephrase that. I TRIED to run a 5K. I know that's nothing compared to my cousin Jessie who just ran a marathon, however, for me, this is big. I hate to run. That's right, I used the word 'hate'. I registered for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5K in Dallas, and after an eventful hour and a half getting there (being witnesses to a crash behind us and watching the drunk drivers flee the scene bleeding from the head), I could only run 100 feet at a time. Why? Because there were approx. 30,000 people there. Many of whom were blocking my way. It was insane! So I'm going to do another one. Who-hoo! First weekend in November I'm going to be running to dig wells in Sudan. How cool is that?

30,000 people. CRAZY.


Well this is getting to be a long post. I'm going to finish up my glass of wine, watch the new "Stormchasers" on Discovery because I'm a geek, and get my sleep on.

Sweet dreams.

Update on the Sickie

So I find myself home on a Saturday night rather than celebrating a coworker's bday in Grapevine because I'm sick. Again. UGH. But we apparently caught this one early, and the antibiotics are starting to kick in. Yay!

So what's been going on with me? School has been great so far this year! Lots going on, and we've got gigs lined up for the fall semester left and right! Fall concert is Oct. 14th, so if you're in the area, stop in for a "Short & Sweet" concert! 30 mins. of music, and then desserts! Yummy.

Coda's cracking me up. My friends comment on the scratches on my arms (which is hilarious because she really doesn't jump on many people anymore, just me), and I tell them that she hits me because she loves me. Which is true. LOL

And you're not going to believe me, but too bad! I'm running in a 5K in about 3 weeks. I know. I said "running". Crazy, no? But some friends talked me into it, so I'm in! The exercise wouldn't hurt, either.

So there's my latest update. Hope those of you reading this at work were able to waste at least a good minute or two reading.

Not-so-ordinary Sunday

What a gorgeous day. I mean really. While DFW missed the hurricane winds and storms, it was dreary and gray all day yesterday. Today? Sunny, cool breeze, windows open, I can sit on the porch and read... Ahhhh... I love days like today. AND it motivated me to get some things done around the apartment! And there was a good sermon today on forgiveness. Seems like a lot of those sermons (because there ARE a lot of them) can just drag on and not relate. Today's hit home. It was good.

I feel good about the day. :)

Heidi Made Me Do It

I got this from Heidi's blog. Though I am curious... why 58 questions? Why not make it 55 or an even 60? Just a thought to ponder. :)

1. What time did you get up this morning? 7:15, then 9:00. The bunkhouse is freaking dark all hours of the day/night.

2. Diamonds or Pearls? Diamonds

3. What two things do you always have with you? Some sort of lip balm and my sunglasses.

4. What is your favorite TV show? The Office

5. What do you usually have for breakfast? Granola bar or cereal.

6. What is your middle name? Elizabeth

7. What food do you dislike? Octopus

8. What is your favorite CD? Anything Michael Buble. Or Vampire Weekend. I like their sound. Ooo! And Inga Swearingen. I was introduced to her on Prairie Home Companion.

9 . What type of car do you drive? My 2008 Scion tC. I LOVE IT.

10. Favorite sandwich? Salami and swiss

11. What characteristic do you despise? People who believe they are entitled to everything and anything. And close-mindedness.

12. Favorite item of clothing? My zebra heels.

13. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? Spain

14. What color is your bathroom? Umm... apt. white paint, and I've got bright dots in there.

15. Favorite brand of clothing? Basically anything that fits right and is affordable.

16. Where would you retire to? I honestly have no idea.

17. What was your most recent memorable birthday? 26 years old. I can't believe I remember it.

18. Furthest place you are sending this? I don't know who reads my blog.

19. Who do you least expect to send this back to you? n/a

20. Person you expect to send it back first? n/a

21. Favorite saying? "Git money, foo!" Andrew Orender

22. When is your birthday? November 26, 1980

23. Are you a morning person or a night person? Late morning.

24. What is your shoe size? 7.5 or 8

25. Pets? CODA! My amazingly sweet and lovable 70 lbs. lap dog! PS: I think she has a breed - Catahoula Cur

26. What did you want to be when you were little? A Care Bear. Then an architect. Never a teacher.

27. How are you today? I am doing wonderfully. Just got back from Possum Kingdom, still have 1 day before heading back to school, and I realize that I am in a really great place in my life.

28. What is your favorite candy? M&Ms or Milky Way Midnight

29. What is your favorite flower? Pretty ones.

30. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? Sept. 25th. Next payday.

31. What is the last thing you ate? Leftover Chipotle for dinner.

32. What are you listening to right now? The a/c pumping out cool air.

33. If you were a crayon what color would you be? Purple

34. How is the weather right now? Nice. Warm, but nice breeze.

35. Last person you spoke to on the phone? That was a couple of days ago... um, my aunt Carol.

36. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yep! Heidi's awesome!

37. Favorite soft drink? Coke with grenadine.

38. Favorite restaurant? iFratelli or Joe T. Garcias

39. Hair color? Auburn

40. Siblings? 1 brother, 3 sisters, 2 brothers-in-law

41. Favorite day of the year? I agree with Heids about the days surrounding Christmas. I also really enjoy the last Spring Concert, as it's the last hurrah for my 8th graders. I feel a huge sense of pride in them and get so excited for them to take on high school.

42. What was your favorite toy as a child? Ice skates? My Little Pony? A sled?

43. Summer or winter? Fall

44. Hug or kisses? Hugs

45. Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate

46. Do you want your friends to email you back? Yes

47. When was the last time you cried? Mom made me do it.

48. What is under your bed? Wrapping supplies, horse pictures, and Coda-hair.

49. Who is the friend you have had the longest? Oh goodness. Renee. But we haven't talked in a loooooong time. So then Matt.

50. Favorite smell? Pine forests.

51. What are you afraid of? Stupid things my students will do. And loss of family.

52. Plain, butter or salted popcorn? Salt and sugar. Kettle corn, baby!

53. How many keys on your key ring? Umm... 3 on my home set, and somewhere around 7 or 8 on my school set.

54. How many years at your current job? Just started my 3rd year!

55. Favorite day of the week? Thursday or Saturday

56. How many towns have you lived in? Springfield and Glen Ellyn, IL; Eagan, MN; Indianapolis, IN; Arlington, Euless, Fort Worth, Frisco, and Irving, TX. So 9. Ouch.

57. Do you make friends easily? Yes

58. How many people will you be sending this to? Whoever reads my blog.

Dancing Queen

A couple weeks ago I went to a friends wedding as a)her friend and b)1 of 3 people representing our school at her event. To make a not-so-long story short, we got ourselves invited to one of her hubby's friends weddings in December (whom we had never met before, by the way) because we were so much fun on the dance floor.

You heard me right. As a student once quoted to me "You rock the socks off my pet llama, Margo. Don't judge her." Apparently the 3 of us brought down the house. Which wasn't too hard to do! I'm used to the wedding receptions/dances where you get out there and only leave to get a drink of water, then you get your butt back out on the dance floor! Their family's were more, 'let's talk and sit here and leave by 9:00.'

So I'll leave you with a couple of photos from the evening, and spare you the one's that show me drenched with sweat after dancing all night on a floor with very little A/C.


We are no longer welcome at the Wal Mart in Tahlequah, OK.


Me, Danae, and Alicia


Danae, Me, and Alicia - a little less formal. ;)

The only thing I've ever really liked her in. I love it!

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

Leaves... Temps... Nudity

Random note for you all from D/FW. I took Coda out behind my building yesterday and couldn't figure out where I was hearing a scratching noise from. It sounded like a squirrel running around in the tree nearby, but I couldn't see him! These trees are not grand old trees. They're newbies. It's not difficult to see ANY movement from animals in them. I finally realized it wasn't an animal making the noise. Dried leaves from the Living Oaks were falling to the ground, falling past other dried leaves, making the scratching sounds. People, it's August 4th. While I understand that the northern states may be seeing some beautiful foliage or be preparing for that, you can't tell the leaves have turned here. Because most haven't. So the trees I see from my living room window have become a little premature in their quest to get naked. I think this is because it's so freaking hot here.

This past week, and this upcoming week, temperatures are supposed to be 100+. And then you see the little note below the highs listed for the day that says "feels like..." And some of them are over 110 degrees.

I guess the trees are just following my general rule for summers in Texas: Only wear enough so as not to get arrested.

Red Ribbon Ride

My sister Heidi just completed the Red Ribbon Ride in MN. It's a bike ride supporting the cause to fight HIV/Aids. Take a moment to check out her blog. I'm so proud of my sister!

Update?

So it's been awhile since I last posted. I don't really know what to tell you though! Not much is going on here. Coda's crazy. I'm sleeping in when she lets me, and I'm thinking about getting ready for school that starts up in a few weeks. I'm heading out to Albuquerque one more time (next weekend!) to visit the 'rents and am thankful I know people who work for Southwest Airlines. If you're single and work for an airline, please contact me. That alone guarantees you at least 3 dates with me. Yes, I'm single again. And really, that's good! I'm raring to go now for school! Who-hoo! I plan to paint my office a purple-ish grey. Why? Because I can. And because it's time to make it mine. This will be my 3rd year there and I don't plan on leaving anytime in the near future. MY OFFICE SHOULD BE MY OWN! Questions? Didn't think so. =) Alrighty! Until something exciting comes up, or until I feel guilty for not blogging... ciao.

Out and About!

Two nights ago I was out with the girls, celebrating my friend's last few weeks as an unmarried woman. We had a GREAT time pre-dinner opening gifts at Hotel ZaZa in Uptown, and then went out to Cuba Libre for some amazing Cuban fare. Unfortunately for me, I had to depart after dinner as I'd made the mistake of booking a bachelorette party that night, and singing a solo for the 2 services at church the next day. 1st service was at 8:30 AM. But I hear they had a great time dancing, and those of us from East can hardly wait for the wedding! Below is a pic of the East girls, and then a link to my solo. Can you tell I had alcohol the night before???



And the solo, "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing"... just not another margarita!
It's a little hard to hear. No mike in front of me.

*Had to delete the link as it was going to the newest anthem - some guy singing.*

Proud Mother

I had a 'proud mother' moment for Coda today. We went out behind my building and I let her run around in the electrical field (normal activity for her). The risk here is that a)she feels the need to explore and ignores my commands or b)she spots another dog in the field and runs to them, again, ignoring my commands. Usually we don't have these problems. Today, however, there was a beautiful black lab mix up on the other end of the field and they saw one another. Not wanting to chase her down or go into the overgrown field myself (in flip flops), I called to Coda to come back out of the field. She hesitated... then came running back through the fence to me!!! I didn't even have to pull the 'treat' card! Needless to say we ran back to the apartment where she promptly received 2 treats and LOTS of tug-o-war time! After being rather annoyed with her this morning for not allowing me to sleep, my sour mood has been turned around as my dog LISTENED TO ME and OBEYED! I am so proud of her!!!

Wow. What sort of mother will I be if I have, you know, HUMAN KIDS? Holy cow.

By the way, this picture cracks me up. It's from Albuquerque. The altitude had gotten to her, and her tail's wrapped. LOL.

Happy Tail Syndrome

Yes, it exists. Even the vet said it did. I'd noticed Coda had been losing hair on the tip of her tail, and was worried it was mange... again. But she hadn't been scratching or chewing on it, so all was well! Until New Mexico. We got there, and Coda got so into the local art scene she decided to join in the fun! We were finding blood spatter as high up as some of the picture frames. When we finally identified the problem, Bob was a great sport and (multiple times) bandaged Coda's tail. She looked hilarious, as you can see below. Apparently, Happy Tail Syndrome is when a dog wags their tail SO MUCH and hits it on things SO OFTEN that it damages the hair follicles. This in turns creates very dry skin in that location. So dry, it ends up cracking and bleeding! And because Coda can't stop wagging her tail (she is a VERY happy dog!), she contributed to Mom and Bob's home with her own modern artwork. Don't worry, we cleaned it all up. But still. HAPPY TAIL SYNDROME?!?!?! Thankfully she's no longer a "mangy mutt".

Albuquerque, New Mexico

The trip to Albuquerque was filled with awesome views, food, and conversation! Thanks to Mom and Bob for hosting and joining us on adventures galore! I had a great time, and the pics below to prove it!



Red Rock in New Mexico!


Me and Chad at the Soda Dam.


Mom and Bob at the Soda Dam.


Jemez Falls. Gorgeous!


Almost to the top of the climb at Tent Rocks! Do you see why they're called Tent Rocks?


Bob, Me, Chad, and Mom at the top of the tram on Sandia Peak.


Sunset from Sandia Peak, on La Luz Trail.

Parent's Blog

Mom and Bob have their own blog! Check it out and welcome them to the world of blogging!

Guitar Hero

What a game. Alyse, Jeff and I had some fun the other night when I drove through Austin and played Guitar Hero. It's freaking hilarious. I consider myself a musically inclined person, but unfortunately that doesn't mean I'm a knowledgeable or anywhere-near-talented person about rock. So yeah. Take the classical musician, the former musician, and Jeff-THE-Guitar-Hero and you get a rather interesting game. It reminds me of when I was in Breckenridge with the Orenders and Andrew and I played the generic version of "Dance Dance Revolution". Again, I totally sucked that up. Another one? The same sort of dancing game, but with a "Dancing with the Stars" theme. Katy, you would have died. Bruno actually critiques you! I did have better luck with that one. Could have been the coca cola with the help of my good friend Jack. Together, they make everyone more talented.

So Much Going On!

It's a roller coaster ride.

Downer? The biological father called. He's thinking of moving. Looks like he's heading South. Pray for me. Moving on...

Upper? AWESOME weekend with the friends on the river in New Braunfels! Enjoyed the river, the drinks, and the company. Fantastic music in church today. We had an amazing soloist who made the All-State Choir this past year and has an incredibly mature, rich alto sound. She was fantastic today! Our Choir did a great job backing her up. You should listen to it.

Upper again??? Father's Day! Bob is the best dad a girl could have. Can I get a witness, or 3, Heidi, Stacy and Alyse?! How he manages to keep up with 4 daughters I'll never know. And our pets! What a guy! Happy Father's Day, Bob!

My Scion tC

I got a car. And not just any car, a car that met and surpassed everything I wanted in a car. And it's NEW. I've never had a new car! It has that new car smell, look, and feel! Name suggestions? "Camry" has been offered up as a tribute to my first car (MY first car, not the one my parents said, hey! drive this!). She's purple-ish, and I love her. And she's a 5-Speed!!!!! Do you know how much fun I'm having??? OK, I'm done with the unnecessary punctuation. Maybe not just yet... I AM SO EXCITED ABOUT MY CAR!!!!!

Done. With Several Things.

What a week. School is out, and I am ready for summer! But the last couple of days have been a rollercoaster. Thursday morning was the last day with kids, and my AP approached me asking about 3 bins and a set of golf clubs outside the front entrance of East. I was not aware of their existence there, but sure enough, there was my name on one of the bins in handwriting I am quite familiar with. My belongings from elementary school and my clubs are in the entrance of my place of work, for all to see. And for almost 24 hours, seeing as someone wasn't considerate enough to alert ANYone to their being there. Then there's the issue of another box I was contacted about 2 weeks ago. I met up with a mutual friend, delivering a box filled with anything to do with the two of us. But how does it look when I'm receiving emails regarding one box, then 3 and some golf clubs show up at my school??? I can tell you I was wary of picking up the one. But it's done. I have what I think is all of my possessions back IN my possession. Hopefully there are no more surprises.

There's A Light...

8 days of school left! My concert went just fine, and I'm looking forward to next year! My administration is fantastic, my friends are great, and it's time to kick back and enjoy the summer mornings with Coda. So who's ready to play???

Summer's Comin'

Summer is on it's way. My final concert of the year is this Friday, and then it's time to put the room in order for next year. And next year, the 8th graders will be all mine. Meaning I will have had them for the full 3 years they've been at East. The first time I can say I've been the only Choir teacher the graduating kids have had. I am VERY excited about that! Hopefully they can pull themselves together to improve on this year! I'm so proud of my students this year. They have worked so hard to come so far from where their program used to be.

So I am excited to take a break from school, work on Mary Kay, and just enjoy the time away from teaching... until the fall, that is. =) One of my counterparts pointed out that they handed out the registration cards to the kids early this year, making them choose their electives when the performing arts programs were in their worst time of the year - U.I.L. Then they pointed out to the kids that they handed us our contracts at the same time. Let me tell you how many times the thought runs through your head about whether you are really going to sign that document or not. LOL. Of course, after this year, with the team I've got and the family at East that's been formed, I'm not going anywhere.

So I just had to share my enjoyment of the end of the year, and that I actually am looking forward to next fall.

San Antonio!

My choirs took a trip to San Antonio last weekend to compete and then go to Sea World! We did really well in our performance, earning a Superior ranking from all 3 judges, and we came in runner-up in class! West came in first, which was fantastic for them - they sounded so great!

Sea World was a blast - all my kiddos had fun, and I even got to ride the Steel Eel and the Great White. Shamu was awesome, and if you get to see their acrobatic show, Viva, with the Beluga whales and porpoises (porpi?), do it. Shamu's "Believe" is still the number 1 show to see, but Viva was amazing.

So I'm back after a chaotic time getting home (migraine landed me in the ER the morning we were leaving), but all is over and well. Can't wait to start planning next year's trip. I must be crazy. =)

Saturday Night...

... and I'm finally feeling motivated! At 10:40 PM. Bad timing. But laundry's getting done, and I've paid my bills and taken Coda out on a brief walk. How 'bout them apples?!?! Tomorrow I get to sing in church (I love my director - he makes singing in a church choir so much fun again!!!), take Coda to a new dog park with another choir director, his wife, and their two dogs (yay for doggie playdates!), and hopefully play some tennis! If not, I'll still have some time to relax or go work out or even go up to school (DREAD) to get some things done. Really, it's not a bad thing.

Speaking of school... yesterday was a sad day for the CISD family. Two of our '07 graduates died Thursday night/early Friday morning. The incidents were not related. Please pray for the families of those kids (they were 18) and for the CISD family. One was the daughter of one of our teachers, so we are all taking it hard. Thanks.
The news article is here.

My How We've Grown

I just finished looking at the wedding pictures that Heidi posted, and I can not get over the fact that my little sisters are so grown up. I feel as though you go through life and you have these ideas of how "old" you are or other people are based on their age. At age 25 you should be one way. Age 30, slightly more mature and adult-esque. And so on and so forth. But going through the ages, I still feel like I'm 25. Not that I am that far from it, but I don't see how turning 30 in a couple of years will change that. So my sisters seem trapped to me in their respective ages of 22 and 20. Looking at the wedding pictures though (and Heidi and Eric do an amazing job taking these photographs) I see my baby sisters all grown up. Aunt Carol saw it when Alyse was standing up at the altar. "She's grown in the last half hour - become a woman right before our eyes". And while I know what she means, Alyse has been that woman for longer than her wedding day. She's been more of a "grown woman" for longer than I think I'd like to admit. She's still "Peasers" to me.

And Stacy? I saw a picture of her and Taylor and couldn't move past it. She's so gorgeous, and happily married to a man I'm thrilled to have as a brother. All I could think was, "Wow, she's beautiful - and so happy!". She's always been the more independent and self-sufficient in my mind. And she is so good at going after what she wants and getting it! I know that I'm proud of her; I can't imagine how Mom and Bob must feel.

I feel inclined to comment on Heidi here, because she's more of a sister than blood could ever determine. But she's not a "baby" sister to me. She's my partner in "older sister-hood". I feel like she's a teammate to keep watch over the youngsters, ever though they haven't needed that in years, if ever. Must be part of an older sibling syndrome though, as I come across a lot of eldest children who feel the same way. It's a curse, knowing my younger sisters don't need (or even want, for that matter) me to watch out over them, but still feeing the urge to do so. Heidi's been good for that. She keeps me in line, reminding me of how independent and capable Stacy and Alyse are.

So here I sit wondering that if they are so much more grown, then where am I? I look back on the past couple of years and know that I am becoming the woman I want to be. Even though it took a few "bumps" in the road to help get me there. I am happy, love my job, have amazing friends, and truly enjoy my family. How blessed can one girl be? Oh and I can't leave out Coda. What would a blog posting of mine be without my puppy being mentioned? But we won't go into her "growth". 35 lbs. when I adopted her and 75 lbs. now, I think we all can attest to her maturity.

So I will go now, knowing my sisters are amazing and life is good. Hope you enjoyed the pondering today.

Beautiful Bride

Peasers got married this past weekend! She was an absolutely beautiful bride, as well as organized! Lucky Jeff is all I have to say! And I only cried once - Bob sang during the ceremony. It even helped me forget about the 4 inch heels I was wearing. Let's face it. I'd wear them all over again to see my sister so happy again to be marrying the man she loves! I'm sure Heidi will have some pics posted soon. I'll steal from her.

Talent? Skill? Luck?

Too cool for school.

ABC's of Kate

How did Katy know I would blog this if I were tagged???

A - Attached or single? Single. Right? Yeah, single.
B - Best friend? Jennifer, Amanda, Melissa... depends on the topic. =)
C - Cake or pie? Pie.
D - Day of choice? Tough one. Either Thursday or Saturday.
E - Essential item? Lip balm.
F - Favorite color? Purple!!!
G - Gummy bears or worms? Bears. Worms bring back memories of wanting to puke.
H - Hometown? Eagan, Minnesooooota!
I - Favorite indulgence? Katy, you're not alone. SHOES.
J - January or July? January. July is too freaking hot in this state!!!
K - Kids? Do my 90 students count?
L - Life isn't complete without? Family!! They are ALWAYS there for me!
M - Marriage date? Ummm... defunct.
N - Number of brothers and sisters? 3 sisters, 1 step-brother, and almost 2 awesome brother-in-laws.
O - Oranges or apples? Oranges unless they have a lot of skin on them, apples unless they're squishy.
P - Phobia and fears? I fear people don't like me. Then I realize, who COULDN'T like me? And if they don't, they're stupid.
Q - Quote? "I don't have an ego, I just love how awesome I am!"
R - Reason to smile? There are so many! Texas skies, Coda, family, hugs, friends...
S - Season of choice? Fall
T - Tag three people: Dagnabit, Katy already got Heidi. Umm... Alyse, Matt (yes YOU, Matt), and Jenny.
U - Unknown fact about me? Strange, but I'm going to go with Katy on this one... I like to sleep in my panties. Shorts and pj pants are not as comfortable as I would hope.
V - Vegetable? Bell Peppers
W - Worst habit? I talk VERY FAST.
X - X-ray or ultrasound? I don't care, just make me feel better!
Y - Your favorite food? Chips and salsa.
Z - Zodiac sign? Sagittarius. What that tells you, I don't know.

Lock Out

My dog locked me out of my apartment. You know that "security deadbolt" a lot of apartments have that only lock/unlock from the inside? She hit it while I was trying to get the other lock opened at 1:30 AM after a cast party. Poor Carol and Bill got to house me for the night, and they had to saw into my door today to get me back in! Crazy Coda hadn't made a mess though! And I missed the CISD Job Fair. My principal says I have the best excuse she's ever heard. =)

The Gondoliers

Tonight and Sunday afternoon, I'll be seen as 'Giulia' in Gilbert & Sullivan's operetta, "The Gondoliers"! Feel free to come on out to Colleyville to be entertained! http://www.regalopera.org/

Zebra

Heidi inspired me to post a photograph of my new shoes that I have been looking for FOR MONTHS! I am pleased to announce that Alyse and Mom were present at that location of, and purchase of my Zebra print heels. I'm in love.

Liam's Turn!

Liam turned 1 year old the day after Connor turned 2! Couple of entertaining photos for you...


By the end of the night the cake was all in his hair, too!


Watch out, Connor! It's the Kissy Monster!


We know. We're hott.

Go Dawgs!

Congrats to the Butler Bulldogs on winning the Horizon Championship! Onto the NCAA! And I totally made my students listen to the Butler Warsong today, while looking at a slide with the picture below gracing my screen. LOVE IT.

Connor's 2nd BDay!

Here are a couple pics from the party yesterday! I thought I'd better post them now rather than later considering Katy was chastising me via iChat yesterday about not updating. You'll see some more pics from Liam's party (tonight!) in the next day or two as well!
Enjoy!



Gran & Connor, loving those party favors!




Connor was all about his cupcake.




Connor tore into those gifts! I think he finally got it this year. These were HIS!

HP Printers

How excited am I that HP Inks come with a prepaid envelope for you to send them the old cartridge for recycling? PREPAID!!! Kudos to them for making me not cringe at my ink usage anymore. At least for the next 30 seconds.

Soulja Boy Teacher Style

You asked for it. The music's a little off, but not by too much.

Motherhood...

What does it mean when someone tells you you'll be a great mother... based on the way I "mother" my dog?

Tomorrow, I dance.

That's right. I will take on Soulja Boy with 15 other East teachers, and we will ROCK THE GYM! In yo face! LOL! Seriously though, the kids are going to die, it's so funny. I'm trying so hard to get it videotaped for you all. Don't worry, there will be evidence of this crazy routine.

The 8's

Katy tagged me. Dagnabit. Now I have to be insightful...

8 Things I’m Passionate About...

1. My Family
2. My Dog
3. Singing
4. My Students
5. Shoes
6. Laughing
7. Pasta
8. Learning New Things

8 Things I Want To Do Before I Die...

1. Travel to Spain
2. Marry Someone who... there's a list. How about someone I won't divorce?
3. Become passionately involved with a charity
4. Have a lasting (hopefully positive) impact on my students
5. Own a HOME
6. Be a mom
7. Be a grandmother
8. Be satisfied with me.

8 Things I Say Often...

1. Totally
2. 'Sup
3. Is it naptime?
4. Good question! Why don't you answer that for the class?
5. Don't even...
6. Coda... NO!
7. Coda... OW!
8. Huh?

8 TV Shows I’ve Recently Watched...

1. Mythbusters
2. Dirty Jobs
3. CSI
4. The news
5. House Hunters
6. Designed to Sell
7. ColorSplash
8. Anything educational, really.

8 Songs I Could Listen to and sing (my own insert there) Over and Over...

1. Defy Gravity from Wicked
2. There's a Fine Line from Avenue Q
3. Waitin' for My Dearie from Brigadoon
4. That Sunday, That Summer
5. Online by Brad Paisley
6. Stay by Sugarland
7. A song by Sheryl Crow that I can't remember the title of...
8. You May be Right, I May be Crazy by Billy Joel

8 Things That Attract Me To My Best Friends...

1. Their humor.
2. Their willingness to laugh at themselves and incite that laughter.
3. Their ability to listen
4. I trust them!
5. They put me in situations and expose me to new things that I may not have tried by myself.
6. They aren't afraid to question me
7. They make me smile!
8. Their love for others.

8 Things I’ve Learned (or been reminded of) This Past Year...

1. It CAN be all about me.
2. I've learned that LIFE can be summed up in 3 words: It Goes On.
3. Music is how I feel most connected to God.
4. "God" is only one title or name
5. I love my family.
6. I love to sing in front of people.
7. I love to laugh - belly laughs
8. I've learned (and been reminded of how) to prioritize.


8 People I Think Should Do “8”...

1. Mom
2. Bob
3. Alyse
4. Stacy
5. Heidi (already did it)
6. Kyle
7. Matt
8. Amanda

Coda + Boxer = 110 Pounds

110 pounds. Think about it. Think about it coming straight at you, below the knee line, and as you try to move out of the way while bending your knees for hope of some stability, they hit. A witness said, "I looked and you were midair". That's right. Upper butt/lower back hit first, then my head. Two days later I have no bruises to sport (grrrr), my neck is killing me, and I can't walk around or sit without wincing. Good news? I met some nice people. And this one guys dog is named (get this) PAVLOV. How cool is THAT?!?!

I love my puppy. And she loves to run into me.

Soulja Boy

O. M. G. At our next pep rally, a group of teachers will be performing the Soulja Boy dance. That's right. Yours truly, the pastiest and dorkiest of them all will dance in front of her students, faculty, and parents in a dance that is sure to haunt her the rest of her life. I am PUMPED UP! And I'll try to get the video on YouTube, so the rest of you can enjoy it as much as my kiddos.

Check it out...

Coda Pics

I found these pics of Coda and they made me laugh. Check out her tongue!

Auditions are Funny

No, I do not know why my Albuquerque pictures suddenly decided to disappear. I tried fixing it once, and will try again, but I don't know what's up.

Otherwise...

School is back and going full-blast. 9 out of 14 of my kiddos that auditioned made the Region and Honor Choirs! I am excited for them - they will sound awesome! Coda gets to try a new dog park today (after it warms up a little bit), and I get to read a lot of a book by Ruby Payne about the socioeconomic influences on the lives of my students and in education. It should prove interesting. Now if I can just find my copy of the book in my apartment... I really hope it's not at school.

Fun side notes? Made some new friends at Region auditions yesterday! Found out I am not the only one who says stupid things to their classes unintentionally (like starting at rehearsal letter F and saying "One, two, F-'n Go!"). At least I didn't call a girl a ho. =) Or make my AP leave the room crying they were laughing so hard during an evaluation because my class said (and they were supposed to) "ti-ti". Most of our auditioners were great yesterday. In fact, they all knew the music (the kids I was judging), they just didn't all sing on the right pitches. One girl made my day when she sang the entire second half of the audition up about a fourth from where she should have been. I know, I know. Poor girl. That's what I said. Then I looked at another judge and they were crying they were laughing so hard. You think we're mean, but you sit on your ass all day and listen to 55 girls sing the same 2 minute cut of 2 pieces ALL DAY and try to rank them accurately.

Alright. I'll keep trying to repost my ABQ pics!