No Place Like Home for the Holidays...

Ahhhh, my winter break has been glorious! I have really enjoyed just about every minute of it and am already panicking because I have to go back to work in 6 days. It is funny how easily I slip into sloth mode when I have a week off school. Here's a rundown of some of the fun things I've done/ am doing on break:

-Visited with Auntie Jo, Uncle Tom, Uncle Dick, Robin, Sidney, and Keegan.
-Family Game Night with my dad's side of the family. This was the first time we did this and I hope we continue it. It was more about having fun and hanging out with family than presents!
-Girl Day with Amy R. and Alison. We ate, we shopped, we ate some more. Maybe that is why I keep gaining weight!
-Momma's Boys-Why, why, WHY do I like this show?
-Christmas day with the fam. My brother got to come home and we had turkey and all of the fixings -just the 4 of us. Then we visited the grandparents. We then returned home to play my mom's Wii all evening long. I refuse to reveal my original Wii age but I did it over again and was 27-that's more like it!
-The evening after Christmas. I got to hang out with Terry, Karen, and Alison. We laughed A LOT. We hung out with some guys from high school and laughed even more.
-Shopping for my brother's girlfriend with him. Nice to know he values my opinion. To thank me for helping him he allowed me to go buy some new running shoes. How nice of him!

Today I get to go hunt for clothes for NYE. The tradition is to go to Amy and Jon's house for their party. It is always a costume party and this year is 80s. Can't wait!

Random News

Wow! Lots to catch up on...

First, I'm so excited Baby Borich finally made her appearance. Bennett was born last Thursday, and, if the Facebook pictures are accurate, is adorable! I can't wait to meet her!

Secondly, we had our first dance of the year at school last Friday. Winter Wonderland. The gym looked awesome and we had music, photos, and snacks for the kiddos. I think the students all had fun (even though there was one almost fight and lots of groping). I enjoyed seeing them let loose and have fun...oh and my 3 year old date, Davion.

My YA Lit Blog is coming along nicely. I don't know if any of the kids are really using it, but I'm having fun reading and blogging.

We had a snow day on Monday. Much needed time off. I watched movies and stayed in my pajamas all day long.

I had a near crisis on Tuesday when my windshield wipers fell apart on the way home. I BARELY made it to O'Reilley's to get new ones.

Tomorrow is our 2nd Annual Cookie Exchange at work and the start of our winter break. I'm really excited and hope to actually do something over break. I've been in a little funk this week and am hoping being off school and feeling like I can actually do stuff will break me out of it.

Exhausted

Last night I tossed and turned all night. At one point I woke up to find my dog trapped in the sheet from my bed. No idea how that happend. I am so tired right now and have the worst headache. A really loud kid just came into the library with the counselor. He looked at me and took the kid back out. I must look terrible.

The Biggest Loser and Concerts

Our school district is sponsoring a Biggest Loser Competition across the district. I'm pretty stoked. We start competing now and go until March. Since, I have about 30-35 more pounds to lose, this is a great incentive. Each competitor puts in $15 and we work as a team of 10 or more in the building. If we get 22 buildings to participate, I could get $165. Wowza!

Last night was the Winter Concert at my school. It was awesome. The band, orchestra, and choir were very impressive.

Finally, I am at a loss for what to ask for for Christmas. What are you asking for?

It's Official...

I've started a new blog for the middle school students at work. I hope that they will check the blog and get some ideas for good books.

I've barely recovered from the holiday weekend. My cousin and his wife stayed with me the entire weekend, and we had lots of fun. I was completely exhausted, but love seeing my family get together. Almost all of my cousins on both sides made it into town for Thanksgiving. Hopefully pics will soon follow!

In the mean time I've got to get my tree up!

Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do...

I will explain the reference in a moment. Here is a recap of my busy weekend!

Friday night I went with my church family to Eden for their Raise the Praise concert. The proceeds went to Beverly Farm and it was incredible. The vocal and musical talent that some of the performers had I can only wish for.

Saturday-I saw some little movie called TWILIGHT!!! Yes, I've been so excited reading just about every review and/or article that I could get my hands on regarding this movie. My friend Sara and I arrived at the theater over an hour early to ensure good seats. I took great pleasure in knowing that the other people that were there super early were just as old if not older than we were. I will give my review of the movie in another post because, well, I feel it deserves it. We then went to eat Mexican and I proceeded to eat my body weight in chips and salsa.

Sunday I went to church as usual, but the evening proved to be a bit unusual. As I was watching NKOTB on the AMAs, I heard a loud noise. Now, knowing how I feel about the Kids, I'm sure you aren't shocked to know I ignored said noise. Then I heard some yelling. I thought this was strange so I got up to investigate. Apparently, some guy was trying to outrun the police in his car. He hit the street sign in front of my house and then ended up on top of the curb a little farther down. The guy then jumped out of his car and ran through my yard. THe police caught up to him in front of the guy who lives behind me's house. They cuffed him and dragged him through the alleyway to meet a police car on the other side of my house. CRAZY!!! I felt like I was involved in an episode of COPS. Of course I call my mom telling her all about it with my dad asking if I'm still in my house in the background. I may be a bit silly and naive sometimes, but seriously? Why would I step out of my house when there is a police chase going on outside of my house? Yeesh, give me a little credit!

All in all, an exciting weekend!

One of those days...

Ever had one of those days that just starts off so bad you want to get back in bed and start all over again? I had one yesterday.

It started off innocently enough Tuesday night. I was attempting to get ahead of my cleaning and dust and pick up the living room so I wasn't rushing around like a maniac this weekend cleaning (you know, so I could go see Twilight without any guilt). I'm not sure why, but I dusted off the thermostat and in doing so accidentally turned down the heat to 50 degrees!!!! Needless to say, I awoke Wednesday FREEZING!! It was 55 degrees in my house when I woke up. Luckily I had added another blanket to my bed the night before so it was only when I got out of bed that I froze. Ceramic tile + no socks= unpleasantness.

So, grumbling about the cold I head for the shower. I had just purchased some new shampoo and was hoping that was going to make me feel better. Nope. I purchased a second bottle of conditioner instead. So, not only was I cold, but I also had no shampoo to wash my hair. Luckily I had an old bottle of Philosophy shampoo/body wash and was forced to use it.

I'm happy to report that the day got better and I even ended with a great run at the gym. I broke my best personal time for 3 miles! It is only a matter of time before I'm running well enough for a 5K!

WOOOHOOO!

I just purchased my ticket for Twilight on Saturday! WOOT!!!!

Baby, It's Cold Outside...

Brrrr....I feel that winter weather is coming! Poor Sophie is now being rushed to do her business as quickly as possible so I don't have to stand outside very long!

I'm quickly running out of time to get my house ready for my Thanksgiving guests. My cousin and his wife are staying with me for the holiday and I've now got about one million things to clean and get ready for them. Yeesh! This is when I wish I wasn't a pack rat.

I've started to reread a book on visioneering. I've decided I need to start working on what God's vision is for me. I feel like perhaps God needs to send one of those lightning bolts my way soon, 'cause I'm not getting it! Am I the only one who feels that way?!

On a final note: I'm SUPER pumped for the Twilight movie to come out this weekend! I only hope that I can stand being around the crazy teenage girls long enough to actually get to see the movie! I better not be disappointed!

Lots of Pictures

Warning! This post is going to contain a lot of pictures. I am finally getting around to posting Halloween and now I'm also posting NKOTB pics from last night.

The concert was AWESOME!!!! It is probably the best concert I have ever been to in my life. Sure beats the nosebleeds I had the first time they came to town...20 years ago! (Thanks Donnie for reminding us all of how old we are with that, by the way.) Alison and I dressed up, got lots of stares, and felt a kinship with the other crazy dressed up people. I almost touched Donnie (well, not quite, but if I had been one row up I would have touched him for sure) and that makes me happy!


Ok, first here are a few Jamby Crawl pictures:
Me as Sophia Petrillo from the Golden Girls! I even shuffled as I walked!
Me and Punky Brewster AKA Kathy

Ok, there are a lot more, but I've got to move on to the fabulous concert from last night!
This was me trying to decide if this sweatsuit was appropriate to wear in public. I decided they pants were a little much.

Apparently, I decided this was just enough. Notice the vintage sweatshirt borrowed from Amy, the fanny pack borrowed from Alison, as well as leggings and leg warmers. I'm sad to say that hair is all mine.

Alison and I waiting for the New Kids to come on stage.

The mullet sitting in the next section as well as some of the Hangin' Tough boys who thought that they were celebrities.

Here they come!!!!!


And here they are! They've still got the moves from back in the day!

And then they came really close to us and sang two or three songs.

This may have been my favorite song: Tonight! Some dumb girl next to us kept flashing the Kids. I think she thought we were at Mardi Gras. At one point Danny took a beer from someone in the crowd and he and Jordan drank from it before giving it back.

Jordan sining Baby I Believe in You with his shirt open. Looks pretty darn good to me!

I don't remember what they were singing here.

I'm so glad I got to go to this concert! Long live the New Kids!

Odds and Ends

First: OMG the NKOTB concert is tonight!!!!! I am super excited and will be out in full NKOTB fan attire. Pics will follow shortly!

Second: Jamby Crawl was great. Lots of good costumes and I will probably post pics of everything tomorrow. In the meantime check out my Facebook page to see them.

Third: Thank goodness this election is over! I didn't have to wait in line and now we don't have to hear about it every second of the day!

Fourth: I will be posting soon about a conversation my friend Julie had the other night. Let's just say that I didn't realize such hypocritical, racist, unChristian-like Christians existed in such proximity to where I live. I was completely disgusted by what these women were saying.

Fifth: NKOTB is Tonight, Tonight, La la la la la la Tonight!

Thank you for being a friend...

Yes, that is a reference to my awesome Halloween costume for Jamby Crawl 2008! I am planning to arrive as Sophia Petrillo from The Golden Girls. I managed to secure my wig and glasses (curtosey of the Catholic Charities donation box...don't worry I'll probably give them back but no one is going to want these bad boys anyway!). Now all I need is the string to keep my glasses around my neck. Pictures from this fantastic event will be posted by next week. I finally managed to bring my camera home and after replacing the batteries I'm good to go.

Not much has happened in the near month that I've been a bad blogger. I've managed to hit another great milestone in my Weight Watchers history and that is about it.

Yesterday we had teachers meetings all day long...yawn... Why are these things never exciting or entertaining? Would it kill someone to show us a funny video, play a song that makes us want to dance, or do some stand up? I'm just saying. I'd probably remember that over the book I was forced, ummmmm requested, to read. I guess the saying is true: teachers make the worst students.

Also, before I bring an end to this rambling post, I have to write about the awesome organization that I will be involved with come February. Girls on the Run is one of the coolest things...ever! If you have never heard of it visit www.girlsontherunstlouis.org and find out all about it. The FACS teacher at my school and I are going to hold a spring session for our girls. I went to an informational meeting last night and am pumped to get this going!

Ok, promise to be a better poster...

Going to the chapel...

One of my best friends, Aimee, got married on Saturday. The wedding was beautiful and everything went well (in spite of Alison not being able to figure out what she was reading!). I can't believe that everyone is getting married! Some of the highlights of the wedding were Aimee looking gorgeous, Shannon's maid of honor toast, seeing Nana dance, and making a video greeting to the happy couple. Oh, and I danced with an honest to God rocket scientist. He was slightly socially awkward and kept turning me without warning, but he was nice enough. I had a good time and I think Aimee and Shine were happy with they way everything went, so all in all... a success!!

I think I am finally finished with all of the crazy busy weekends until Halloween. Now, I must work on my fantastic costume for Jamby Crawl!

As promised...

Here are some pictures from the fabulous 10 year reunion!

Alison, Amy, and I trying to take our own picture. Notice the fantastic name tags Steph made?

Two of my three best friends from high school-Erin and Alison. No black wasn't mandatory to wear-just what everyone wore. Maybe we were mourning our high school days!
Amy and I rocking our dresses with pockets!

Terry and I at the reunion!

Kathy was there too!

This isn't from the reunion, but it's from the night before. We ended up at this bar again after the reunion ended. I just think it is a cute picture!

You can see more pics on my facebook page. These were all stolen from Alison's facebook since I was missing my camera.

Oh what a night!

I had a BLAST this weekend! Our reunion completely exceeded my expectations! It looked like everyone was having fun-some a little too much! I will post some pics later...I forgot my camera at school and had to depend on others to take pictures for me. It was great to see some people that I haven't seen in almost 10 years. After a rousing game of "sing a song from the 90s" on Friday and dancing like a fool on Saturday, I'm exhausted! I think I'm still processing everything that happened...

TV Debut

My parents got a call on Tuesday from the company that remodeled the first floor of their house. The company is filming a commercial for their company and wanted to know if they could film my parents' kitchen for part of the commercial! It will air on HGTV and my parents are super excited! They are filming today which means I may get to go pick up my brother from the airport. It seems everything is happening this weekend: my brother's visit (he hasn't been home in months- maybe Christmas?), 10 year high school reunion, commercial...

Anyway, I'm feeling somewhat better, still stuffy, but better. I've been working out like a dog to get ready for this weekend. I've been up every morning to run, I mean jog, a mile before school. I can't wait to see Erin and everyone else! Also, can't wait for the next weekend when I get to see one of my oldest (meaning I've known her the longest, not that she's old) friends, Aimee, get married!

I feel yucky...

Joi, I'm attempting to blog more for you!

I am totally sick right now. I have a full blown cold which I believe has now made itself into a sinus infection. I feel so gross and have zero time to be sick. I don't get really sick very often, but it stinks!

Let's see...this week I have to work the Book Fair which leaves this week (thank goodness!), have to read at a family event (which should be interesting considering I have a stuffy "man voice" right now), and my 10 year high school reunion. Ugh.

We managed to hire a new pastor today at church so that job is finally over. I almost cried when Pastor Lori came in so excited to hear we hired her!

Finally, congrats to Alison for finishing her first 5K. I have been meaning to do my own 5K for probably over a year now, but haven't managed to do it yet. Hopefully this spring having my Girls on the Run group will get me to commit and do it already.

Wowza!

Ok, been almost a month since the last post! OOPS!

I've been pretty busy this last month. I'm currently on the downhill slide of Book Fair Week. I was requested to keep it open through Monday, which really doesn't make me happy but must be done for the boss! So far I've caught two kids stealing. I'm not sure which disturbs me more-the fact they are stealing or that they get an attitude with me as if I'M the one that did something wrong. Hello? STEALING! Weirdos.

I'm also trying to plan a weekend out of town with a airline ticket from the ticket fairy (not really, just my dad). The front running place so far has been Disney World, but I have a feeling that isn't going to work out. Back to the drawing board. I'd take any suggestions as long as Southwest can get me there.

Finally, someone loves me. My dad hired his neighbor to come and mow my grass for me. I hate to do it and my dad got sick of doing it for me. :) Twice Mike has shown up to mow my grass and it has already been done. Weird, right? I have no idea who is mowing my grass. They aren't getting paid to do it, nor are they getting any thanks from me because I don't know who it is. It may be my neighbor however he rarely has mowed his own grass in the past so my dad and I find this hard to believe. Are you my Fairy Lawnmower?

School Days, School Days

Well, we've almost made it through two weeks of school now. As I am typing I am sitting at my computer in the library. Tonight is our open house and of course no one is visiting me. Actually, I've had a couple of visitors. One of my favorite students (even though you aren't supposed to have any) brought his parents to visit me. This kid is the most awesome dancer ever. Seriously. The other is a former student of mine who goes here now. I had him in fourth grade and he is so grown up now. His mom said he was really excited to see me here. I was probably just as excited to see him. I love having my babies here with me so I can keep an eye on them for their parents. Finally, the best guest of all has been my former co-op student. He was the best worker I could ever ask for and I miss him terribly every day that I am here.

Celebrate good times, come on!

I'm pretty sure it is no secret that I am trying to lose weight and going to Weight Watchers. I just celebrated losing 10% of me on Saturday! I got my fancy key chain and everything. I'm very excited and proud of what I've accomplished. I am working out with a trainer this month to try and tone more. She kills me, but it is totally worth it. High school reunion....here I come!

Gotta Go, Gotta Go, Gotta Go Right Now

Today concluded the first week of school with students attending. So far, things have been going pretty well. My computer system hasn't been updated to include the 6th graders or any new students so I have to hand write all of their info down when they check out books, but it is completely doable considering what I went through last year.

We had 6th and 8th grade assemblies in the library so that is always a good time. Cramming 180 students in a library is super fun. They handled it pretty well, and I do enjoy seeing the assemblies-just not the exact same assembly twice. I have one more to live through on Monday for the 7th graders and then they are done for at least a while. I'm looking forward to getting into a routine.

The most exciting part of today was that we had no water for half of the school day. They are doing some construction outside of our building and hit a water main. It is quite a sight to see your principal dressed very nicely hauling in buckets of water into the bathroom so the toilets flush. She stayed pretty positive and I'm glad today was Friday so it should be fixed by Monday.

On a sad note, one of our teachers had a seizure at school on Wednesday and ended up with a brain aneurysm. An ambulance came and took her to the hospital where she had to have emergency brain surgery. Yikes! She came through the surgery ok but lost most of her mobility on the right side of her body. Luckily she is young and fit, so recovery should hopefully be quick.

More later!

I'm in a New York state of mind...

Ok, I just realized it has been over a month since I last blogged. Shame on me! I'll try to do a better job at this since a know at least a couple of people read this.

I've been super busy since the last entry! Let's see, I finished summer school, went to NYC to visit my bestie Erin and my brother, and now I'm back at school for another year.

I had a fantastic time in NYC with Erin, Jered, and Brad. My hosts were all great and in spite of sweating profusely and never having ice in my water it was fun. Erin, Jered, and I went to see Spring Awakening and it was great. It took a little while for the show to sink in and for me to decide I loved it but I can't wait to see it when it comes to STL. I've been mildly obessed with the music since the show. If you've never heard of it, google it now...it won like 8 Tonys in 2007 and is based on a play written 100 years ago and was banned for being too racy. Crazy thing is...it is still racy in 2008! Erin, Jered, and I also went to Coney Island and rode the Wonder Wheel. I survived even though I am terrified of heights. Oh, and we also ate a hot dog at Nathan's. Brad and I went walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and to the Met. Both were amazing. I loved looking at the art and artifacts at the museum and probably could have stayed another 4 hours! I love visiting NYC and look forward to going again next year, if possible.

Now, I'm back at school. I'm exhausted and it feels like this should be the 4th week of school, not the 4th day of school. Kiddos are pretty much the same just a year older. I do have to say that the 6th graders seem to be awesome this year. Plus, some of them are so stinkin' tiny that you just want to, as my friend here at work said, pick 'em up and put 'em on your hip.

More later!

What's Goin' On

I'm baaaaacccckkk! I've made it back home from South Carolina in one piece. While the trip there had me slightly worried (I almost kissed the ground when I got there...Dad got a little irritated at the slow drivers) it wasn't as bad as I thought. It was long, but not terrible.

I spent most of my holiday weekend sitting outside looking at a beautiful lake and chatting with the fam. We went boating, jet skiing, and noodling (which consists of floating using a foam noodle not catching fish with your bare hands).

Now, I know you are wondering about the talent show, but I'll get to that in a second. First I have to tell you about the hilarious "parade." Basically it is made up of golf carts that people in the neighborhood decorate and drive down the street. My question was...if everyone is in the parade who watches it? Well, my friends, that would be the family that comes to visit. My uncle's cart broke down about 1/3 of the way down the street so baby Charley didn't get to ride very far. I wish that I had a video of this event because it was hilarious.

Ok, now, I know this is disappointing but there was no talent show. Obviously we realized that we have no talent in our family and that no one really wanted to participate, except maybe my aunt. I hear that the cousins and their wives were going to cook up some lip syncing and interpretive dance, but we never saw it.

Instead, we played Family Feud. My mom played Richard Dawson (only she didn't kiss everyone) and we duked it out for the championship. Unfortunately, my fam didn't win. The host aunt and uncle's team did in spite of my aunt answering the following question this way: Mom:"What is the most important event in a teen's life?"
Aunt: "Winning the World Series. Oh, you said teen's life? I thought you said team's life. Turning 21!"
Needless to say those two answers garnered no points.

We Are Family...

I'm off to the family reunion tomorrow morning at the crack of dawn. I am so not looking forward to the 12 hour trip in the vehicle. Also, not looking forward to the TALENT SHOW. That's right, talent show. I was informed of this lovely idea the other day. I have no talents so I've determined that if I HAVE to participate then I will put library books in the correct order. I can't wait to see what talent my family comes up with. My immediate family is hoping this is all just some sick joke.

I am hoping to get at least one or two Truman nominees read while traveling. I'm going to pick up some motion sickness meds so that I can actually read in the car and not yack. Should be fun.

I'll blog all about the reunion on Monday! Happy 4th of July!!

Sad news

Yesterday I was informed that the author of Our Blueberry, my very first roommate in college, has had a very sad, horrific event occur in her life. Lauren had her beautiful baby Akeelah Nadia on Friday but she was not to stay with us for very long. Akeelah passed away shortly after and is now with God. Words cannot express how sad and sorry I am for Lauren and Lance. I can only hope that baby Akeelah knew how much her family and friends loved her and that Lauren and Lance know how much I love them and pray for them.

Just Call Out My Name...

As I've been working at another school this summer as well as my own I've had the opportunity to meet some very interestingly named students. And by meet I actually mean I looked at the school's roster while doing fine lists and wrote down the most unusual.

Here are my favorites from this school along with my commentary:

**Loreal (I had to look this up on the internet to make sure that this indeed was how you spelled the cosmetics company. Yep, sure is. I hope their siblings are named Maybelline and Cover Girl.)

** Vesta (not sure why I find this so unusual but I think it reminds me of Vespa)

**Tanneko (I feel like this has an Asian flair to it but have no idea if this person is Asian---knowing the school's population-nope.)

**Major (This kid is a Jr. so I find it extra funny. Are his siblings named Minor, Sergeant, Captain, etc?)

**Melchizedek (no idea how to prnounce this)

**Alvin (and the Chipmunks?????)

**Tequila (always amusing when people name their children after alcohol)

**Stone

**Goldie (this is a boy. He does have golden locks though.)

Fun times....what are some odd names you've encountered?

Oh Happy Day....

I almost forgot....Queen of Babble Gets Hitched comes out in stores today!!!! I heart Meg Cabot-she is one of my all-time favorite authors and her blogs are usually hysterical too. I believe this is the third book, so if you haven't read Queen of Babble go out and get it today so you can read the latest installment.

Things that make you go hmmmmmm...

Good news! My friend Kathy is still dry. The rive road, used to access her parking lot is closed but luckily there is another way in. Thanks to Amanda, Cori, and Joi for their concern. So far, we are still dry in A-town. Although, it is supposed to rain all of this week so we'll see.

Our 10 year High School Reunion planning is well underway. If you aren't busy on June 27th, come out for our fundraiser through Outdoor Cinema. We are showing The Goonies in the field next to my old elementary school. I'm really looking forward to it and hope that it brings us the cash flow we desperately need.

I'm SUPER excited because I am getting ready to book my NYC plane ticket today! Billy's Bakery here I come!!

On a more serious note, I just had a kid open the door to the library and yell...."It's a bomb!" While I know he was just doing this for attention from the class that was in here, still a little scary. Hopefully that schmuck gets kicked out of summer school and can enjoy being in the 8th grade again next year.

Rollin', rollin', rollin' down the river....

It seems my friend Kathy may be floating away soon. It seems that the river flooding may almost reach her apartment building. Poor Kathy has been away for a few days (or forever, it seems like she barely lives in her actual apartment) and this is what she comes home to see?! I had to break the news to her last night.

Meanwhile, I just finished reading a book called Love the One Your With by Emily Giffin. Not as good as her other books. It was about a married woman whose "one that got away" comes back into her life. Does she fall back in love with that guy or refuse to go down that road because she is in love with her husband. Don't get me wrong, this book was good, but I kind of got annoyed at Ellen because she was blinded by this blast from her past.

Well, the fam is gearing up for our family reunion in a couple of weeks. We are to wear family t-shirts and this has proven to be a lot more difficult than it should be. It has to be white and have our family name on it. Apparently, my dad is not known for anything in his family except the following: having a tapeworm, almost getting his finger sawed off (by my uncle), and almost dying from appendicitis. How do you put that on a t-shirt?

Off to read...

New Day, New Blog

I'm thinking of creating a blog for my school. I am so not web savvy so instead of creating a web page (I have no clue how to do that) I think I'm going to create another blog specifically for my school and job. I think that this may reach more kiddos and teachers and give me the opportunity to tell everyone about the fantastic books that I read! I think this is especially important because I going to do an incentive for our state award this year. Also, I have been chosen as an adult reader for our state award so I get to help narrow down the field for the nominees. While this sounds dorky to everyone else, my fellow middle school librarians and I were very excited about this. I am anxiously anticipating the list of potential nominees.

Help! I need somebody. Help!

That is probably what my dog thought today when she was at the vet today. I had skipped a month or so giving her the heart worm meds so I had to have her take a test for heart worm. She was not pleased but did really well. Of course, squirming and $31 later, she tested negative and I could spend lots more money for the medicine. Sheesh.

On a lighter note, I got to mow my grass with the old fashioned lawn mower before it pours down rain and am going to see one of my oldest (well she isn't that old she's the same age as me, but we've been friends longer than just about anyone else I'm friends with) friends Aimee. I don't get to see her that often, and I really enjoy spending time with her. Can't wait for tonight!

School's out for the summer!!!!!

Well, it has definitely been a while since I last blogged. I'm sure people are just dying to hear an update. Monday was our last day of school. I am so happy to have my first year as a librarian out of the way. Even better news is that I get to librarian this summer for summer school. I know it sounds like a bummer, but I really could use the money...especially if I'm going to NYC this summer.

Also on an even more important note....Friday night I went to see Sex and the City and then Saturday morning I got tickets for........NKOTB!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am super psyched that they are coming to STL and can't wait for November to get here so I can see them. I even think Alison, Kathy, and I are going to be close enough that they may actually look like people instead of ants. YAY!

Alright, off to a high school reunion meeting. I can't believe I've been out of high school for 10 years already. Man, I'm getting old!

OHHHOHHHOOHHOHHH Hangin' Tough

Sorry it has been so long...I've been super busy!

Here's a rundown of my month:

*My birthday-complete with humiliating balloon hat made by some creepy balloon guy at the Mexican restaurant.
*MASL conference-MO librarian association conference at Tan-Tar-A. The blinker on my rental car didn't work most of the way down there. Good times.
*Jason Mraz concert at EIU-FANTASTIC!!!! I was thisclose to actually meeting him, but had a blast standing on my tip toes trying to catch a glimpse of him.

Those are the big highlights...at least that I can think of here at work. Probably shouldn't be posting here, but I'm procrastinating.

Looking forward to lunch with my friend, Meghan, and then celebrating Cinco de Mayo at the A-Town BP!

Hair!

Since I haven't posted in so long, I thought I would finally post a picture of my new haircut. I have been contemplating bangs for a while and decided to just do it. I really like it and most people have been complimenting me on it. Even my students like it (which considering I work with a bunch of urban 6th to 8th graders is pretty big)! My mom told me it looked so different it was as if I were wearing a wig. Thanks a lot Mom! I think she likes it though. Let me know what you think!

Cause you got to have friends...

Well, I didn't make three in a row, but I'm back today!

Yesterday, I did a whole lot of nothing. I worked out at my home, did laundry, went to the grocery store, and church. Pretty boring day.

Today, I get to see one of my friends from my previous job, Meghan! I don't get to see her very often because she works closer to her home now but I love getting to catch up with her and see baby Ellie! Plus, we usually meet at the Galleria-where I get to eat at Bread Co. and SHOP! I haven't been shopping in a while mainly because of finances and trying to lose weight so I'm excited to actually go to the mall today.

I plan to head to Sephora today and maybe get some new makeup. Joi told me about a brand Makeup is Forever that I am going to look into. Anyone that has seen me in the last 5 months has seen the unsightly rash that has inhabited my face. FINALLY it is gone and so I can think about makeup again. I'm excited!

Oh and then Sara and I are going to go for a walk this afternoon and take Sophie with us. I hope that Sophie will be a good dog unlike the last time I tried to go walking with someone and she just gave up and laid down on the side of the road. Cross your fingers!

Teach your children well...

I made it through my afternoon of babysitting. I hadn't realized how long it had been since I actually babysat. Man, am I exhausted! I definitely have great respect moms and dads. I think this just proves I am not ready for kids yet (not that I am even close to that at this point, but still).

I think my dog is even more exhausted than me. Sophie has done nothing but lay around since they left a few hours ago. She ran around my house roughly 8 million times. The kids loved it though.

I managed to play Mancala, Boggle, and Guitar Hero. We walked down the block to the bakery for a snack and then settled in with the movie Enchanted.

I am getting ready to watch American Idol and see who gets voted off. I would love to see Amanda or Kristy Lee go. Not fans of theirs.

Man I have two posts in two days...think we can go for three?

Have you ever seen the rain?

Geez, we go from enormous amounts of snow to ginormous amounts of rain. Stupid global warming.

Well, I'm on Spring Break this week and so far all it has done is rain. So I've read a book, gone to the gym (not my favorite place after today's run in with the manager who saw me waiting to talk to him and then literally turned his back to me and continued chatting with a buddy on the phone), and visited my brave and strong friend Julie in the hospital.

Tomorrow I get the joy of watching her three children for the day. I think I need to start napping now so that I have enough energy. I think my dog can sense that some whirlwind is about to happen because she's been pretty lazy today.

I am headed to a 10 year reunion planning meeting tonight. I had no idea it would be this difficult to plan such an event. We seem to be the kiss of death to any venue. So far we've managed to attempt two places which have then promptly closed. I'm starting to think I should just have it in my miniscule lawn.

I'll let you know tomorrow if I survive my adventures in babysitting.

These are a few of my favorite things...

Since I'm home for a snow day (again), I thought I would post some of my favorite things:

-Meg Cabot's diary http://www.megcabot.com/ I LOVE all of her books (even those for YA and kids) and she keeps a pretty funny blog, too!

-perezhilton.com Ok, who doesn't love to look at this site? It keeps me on top of my obsession-celebrity gossip.

-trashionista.com If you are looking for good chick lit, this is the place for you. Great reviews of books.

-oldnavy.com Since I am but a poor librarian, I must find my trendy clothes at this affordable place!

-thenest.com Nice place to get good ideas for decorating. And yes, I do realize that I am not married or even engaged but it's all Joi's fault.

-last but certainly not least Aimee, Joi, and Lauren's blogs! I love that I can keep up with my friends this way.

I'm sure that there will be another post today because I'm going stir crazy...

Alright snow, you've made your point!

Yeesh! I am really beginning to HATE snow. I never really liked it before but now I REALLY don't! We have had yet another snow day today. What is with this stupid weather? It was over 70 degrees on Sunday and now here it is Tuesday and snowing at least 6 inches. That means 3 extra days at the end of the year. With summer school, I may not get a summer break!

On to better things...have I mentioned how cool my job is lately? We held our very first poetry slam on Friday and it was an incredible success. I was in charge of coordinating it (given about a month to plan and no ideas of how to pull it off). I was a little stressed, but shouldn't have been. These students continue to amaze me with their awesome talent. I am so proud to be working at a school where the teachers not only support each other (special thanks to our SAIL teacher and wonderful music teachers, not to forget our lovely FACS teacher who just talked to me so I couldn't freak out) and the students but the students encourage and are supportive of each other. To see students screaming and cheering for a particular student gave me chills. I can't wait to make it even better next year. It is a shame our central office doesn't see things that way.

Now for some prayer requests...
1. My friend at church is going through some "female problems" and needs any encouraging thoughts and prayers for no pain as they figure out what to do. Pray for her family too because they have lost 3 people in their family in the span of less than a year and she has three young children and a husband at home taking care of her.
2. My best friend's grandma just found out that she has cancer and needs any healing prayers. Please also pray for the entire family as this will be difficult for all of them.

Oh, the weather outside is frightful...

Our art teacher starts singing this every time the weather gets bad. It is pretty funny but totally fits the last couple of days. Yesterday I got all the way to work, was in the process of walking into the building, when they announced that school had been cancelled. So, we had to stay until the 7 kiddos that were already at school were picked up and then we left. I, of course, being the dutiful librarian that I am picked up some books to read before I left.

So far I've read Project Princess (book 4 1/2 of the Princess Diaries Series) and am in the midst of reading the first of The Beacon Street series. Neither are heavy thinking YA books, but enjoyable for the chick lit reader that I am.

Update to the previous post-the witch doctor didn't really teach me anything. I pretty much heard things I already knew, but I upon leaving felt depressed. Apparently in order to be healthy I can't eat anything I like...pretty much lots of veggies and fruits. I do enjoy fruit and veg as much or more than the next guy, but I also LOVE bread and potatoes. I've decided to attempt to eat even better than I have been but know that I am human and sometimes make not so good choices.

Off to read some more now!

I told the Witch Doctor...

Well, let's see since my last post, the crappiest holiday in the world (Valentine's Day) has come and gone and I've managed to read a bunch of books. And they are actually adult fiction! If you are looking for a good chick lit book I totally recommend Something Borrowed and its sequel Something Blue. Both great books and quick reads. For some reason they really got me into self-analyzing mode.

In the world of young adult fiction I just found out that the Twilight series is being made into a movie! If you haven't read them yet, please do. One of the best series I've read-even for adults!

Tomorrow I am going to hear a doctor specializing in weight loss talk. She is very holistic from what I hear so I am referring to her as the Witch Doctor. Stories I've heard led to this nickname but I'm going with an open mind to listen. My friend swears that her cousin and aunt have lost a LOT of weight since seeing this doctor so I say...BRING ON THE CRAZY! I'll let you know what I learn tomorrow.

Why it is great to be a Librarian...

In addition to the other wonderful benefits of being a librarian i.e. you can sit and read a book and no one gets mad at you, you always have a teacher in the library with their class, you don't have to do annoying, time consuming things like grade papers, do report cards, make lesson plans, and conduct conferences, you are less likely to be eliminated when your school downsizes! That's right, I have narrowly scraped by! Apparently they staffed our school for 900 students and we only have about 500 so they are removing 12 teachers from our building. To be more specific Comm Arts and Math teachers. Yay for being the only librarian at our school!

Other than that, I have completed my first week of Minnie Marathon training. Yes, you read that right. Your eyes have not deceived you! I am training for a mini marathon. I don't actually plan on running the marathon, but I figured this was the kick in the pants I needed to get myself really going on running. So, I'm training as if I am going to run the 15K race. My ultimate goal will just be running in various 5Ks in the area. I would love to be able to run the Minnie Marathon next year if they still have it. For those of you who have never heard of this it is a woman's 15K through Disney World. Sounds like so much fun!

Hit me with your best shot...

or not. This is my second attempt at a blog. I've had one previously at another site and thought I'd try this again. I'll probably post all sorts of random things, since that is pretty much how my life works.